ffl 



MEMOIRS 



OF THE 



LIFE OF DAVID MAKES, 



MINISTER OF THE GOSPEL ; 



EDITED BY 



MRS. MARILIA MARKS. 



' Say not I am a child, for thou shalt go to all that I shall send thee, and whatsoever I 
commandlliee, thou shalt speak.*' Jer. 1:7. 



DOVER, N. H. 



PUBLISHED BY THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST PRINTING ESTAB- 
LISHMENT. 

WILLIAM BURR, PRINTER. 

mi 






3X4 



37 



,H3A3 



Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1846, by Marilla 
Marks, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of New Hamp- 
shire. 



PREFACE. 



Immediately after the decease of Mr. Marks, many highly es- 
teemed friends, whose opinions have deservedly great weight in the 
church, repeatedly expressed the conviction that the cause of 
Christ demanded the publication of his biography. In deference 
to their judgment, and in accordance with their earnest request, 
this work is now submitted to the Christian public. 

In the year 1831, the subject of these Memoirs was persuaded 
by several friends, who had examined his Journal, to publish a 
' Narrative' of his labors in the ministry, especially as those labors 
were intimately connected with the progress of the Free-will Bap- 
tist denomination in the west. An edition of two thousand copies 
was issued, which was nearly all sold in New England within nine 
months after its publication. He was afterwards often solicited by 
friends at the west to publish another edition for the supply of 
the western Free-will Baptist churches, but he felt so much delica- 
cy on the subject, that he could never be induced to listen to their 
importunities. 

For nearly two years and a half after the publication of his 
k - Narrative," he kept a regular Journal, as in former years. Af- 
ter this 'period, on account of the close occupancy of his time with 
immense labors, he only made occasional entries. His " Narrative," 
as written by himself, occupies the first twenty-three chapters of 
the present work in an abridged form. The remainder consists of 
the occasional entries in his Journal; extracts from his correspor 
dence, and from such other documents as could be collected ; anc, 
a brief history of his labors during the intervening spaces has been 
written by the editress from memory. From the nature of the 
materials, the latter part of the biography does not give so much 
detail in a connected form, as would be found in a regular Journal ; 
but the exemplification of his character in its several parts, as well 
as the mere outline of his labors, being one of the objects designed in 
tliis work, it is hoped that the latter part will not be found less inter- 



IV. PREFACE. 

esting or useful than the former. As the subject of these Memoirs 
was deeply interested in all the various branches of Christian re- 
form, it has been deemed proper to give, occasionally, brief ex- 
tracts from articles showing his position on these points. 

It has been with a painful sense of her own inadequacy, that the 
editress of these Memoirs has prosecuted her labor. Gladly would 
she have shrunk from the responsible work, had the necessary 
documents been in such a situation that another could have arrang- 
ed them. She has also been painfully alive to the delicacy of her 
situation, contemplated as the biographer of her companion in life. 
She has, however, aimed to present a portrait of her husband's charac- 
ter just as it was, in private as well as public life, that his influence on 
all points might be perpetuated, and the precious cause for which he 
lived, and toiled, might be thus promoted. In doing this, some things 
needed to be said, which, at first view, it seemed improper for her to 
say. She has felt, too, that she might be censured by some for want of 
discretion in publishing private expressions of sentiment and feel- 
ing. Indeed, doubts on these points have not been absent from her 
own mind. In self-vindication, however, she will state, that she 
yielded her feelings of delicacy to the judgment and counsel 
of friends of high standing in the literary and religious world, 
and has aimed to write with fidelity to the advisory direc- 
tion of a competent judge, " Present your husband just as he 
was." 

In accomplishing this work, she would gratefully acknowledge 
the sustaining grace of God. Notwithstanding the anguish under 
which her soul was writhing from her recent severe bereavement, 
and which, from the nature of her work, has been kept before her 
in all its freshness, she has had consolations that have often render- 
ed her labor inexpressibly sweet. To the church of the living God, 
this work is now dedicated, with many prayers, that, through the 
Divine blessing, it may nerve the hearts of God's people to high 
and holy resolves, to live and die for the salvation of this lost 
world, The Editress. 



CONTENTS. 



CHAPTER I. 
Mr. Marks' parentage — Early religious impressions — Burning of his 
father's house — Removal to Connecticut — Death of his oldest brother 
— Removal to Junius, N. Y. 13 

CHAPTER IT. 

Conversion — Application for membership to a Calvinistic Baptist church — 
Journey to Providence, R. I., and unsuccessful attempt to pursue a 
course of study — Baptism and union with the Free-will Baptists. 18 

CHAPTER III. 

Exercises of mind with regard to preaching on the anniversary of his 
birth day, Nov. 4, 1820, then fifteen years of age — Attends a 
few meetings in different towns with a minister — Returns home — 
Exercises of mind respecting duty — His parents give him his time — La- 
bors in a revival in Brutus and Camillus — Returns to Junius. - 27 

CHAPTER IV. 

Leaves home to travel and preach — Labors in several towns on the 
Holland Purchase — Severe trials — Second burning of his father's 
house — Labors and success — Bethany quarterly meeting — Death of 
his mother. - - - 32. 

CHAPTER Y. 

Returns home — Interview with his family — Attends the organization of 
the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in Bethany — Labors and opposi- 
tion in Junius — Study of Grammar — Labors in several towns — Second 
tour to the Holland Purchase. - - - - - - 48 

CHAPTER YI. 

Leaves for N. H. — Preaches in several places — Revivals in Brookfield 
and Eaton — Continues his journey — Destitution and consequent diffi- 
culties — Labors in N. H. — Offer of a support at college and reasons 
for declining — Union of several churches in the south part of Yermont 
with the Free-will Baptists — Returns to N. Y. 54 

1* 



VI. CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER. VII. 

Labors in several towns — Revival in Candor — Interview with the follow- 
ers of Jemima Wilkinson — Labors — Attends Benton and Erie quarterly 
meetings — Trials and reflections. 6& 

CHAPTER VIII. 

Passage on lake Erie to Ohio — Sufferings on a desolate peninsula— 
Labors in Huron Co. — Funeral of a backslider — Organization of the 
Huron quarterly meeting — Travels to the South part of Ohio — Diffi- 
culties in crossing the Ohio river — Meeting in Kentucky — Visits 
Rutland — Rise of a Free-will Baptist yearly meeting on the Ohio 
river and the trials that follow — Returns to N. Y. - - - 75 

CHAPTER IX. 

Journey to Connecticut — Visits his brother's grave — Rise of a Free-will 
Baptist church in Middletown — Returns to New York — Tour to Upper 
Canada — Reflections at Niagara Falls. ----- 87 

CHAPTER X. 

Prospect of a revival in Batavia — Second tour to Canada — Labors in 
revivals in Batavia and Elba — Le Roy — Groveland and Geneseo — 
Church gathered. --94 

CHAPTER XL 

Publishes an address to the unconverted — Imbibes Unitarian views — 
Interviews with Lorenzo Dow — Revival in Manchester — Labors till 
eighteen years of age. - - - - - - 109 

CHAPTER XII. 

Second journey to New Hampshire — Revival at Bradford — Tour to 
Rhode Island and Connecticut — Execution of a criminal in Tolland — 
New Hampshire yearly meeting at Weare — Revival at Sandwich — 
Labors in the Western part of Maine — Meeting and thunder shower 
at Eifmgham, N. II. — Funeral at Bradford — Returns to New York, 
and travels with Abel Thornton — Labors till Oct. 1824. - 118 

CHAPTER XIII. 

Second journey to Ohio — Labors till Jan. 1825 — Teaches a school at 
York — Another at Salt-rock — Labors while teaching — Revival at 
Salt-rock and some other towns — Hurricane — Interesting baptismal 
scene — Severe illness and fiery trials — Organization of Marion quar- 
terly meeting, and Ohio yearly meeting — Departure for New York — 
Shocking death and funeral — Return home — Spiritual trials. 131 

CHAPTER XIV. 

Teaches at Junius — Preaches under great depression of spirits — Great 
enlargement of mind at Benton quarterly meeting, Jan. 1826 — Is 
ordained — Labors — Severe trials and temptation from Unitarian views 
— Some of the arguments which changed his views. - - 146 



CONTENTS. Til. 

CHAPTER XV. 

Revival in Ontario — Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Rise of the first 
Free-will Baptist church in Upper Canada — Interesting conversion 
and baptism of a sick person — Labors in different places — Revival at 
Canandaigua — Excitement occasioned by the Free-masons' kidnapping 
Capt. Wm. Morgan — Labors in Canandaigua and organization of a 
church — Travels to the eastern part of the State — Free-communion 
Baptists — Baptism of six persons at sun-rise on a winter morning — 
Tour to Pennsylvania, and labors till Aug. 1827 — Yearly meeting at 
Bethany and discussion of Free-masonry — Northern lights. - 156 

CHAPTER XVI. 

First tour to London District, Upper Canada — Revival at London — 
Commencement of a revival at Southwold. - 169 

CHAPTER XVII. 

Revival in Scriba, N. Y. — Church gathered — Happy state of mind in 
expectation of immediate death — Exercises concerning Christian per- 
fection — Labors in Holland Purchase and Susquehanna yearly meet- 
ings — Elder J. Fowler's renunciation of Free-masonry. - 175 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

Second tour to London District, Upper Canada — Meetings in the streets 
in St. Catharines, Hamilton, Ancaster — State of the Free-will Baptist 
churches in the province — Faithfulness of a Christian wife blessed to 
the conversion of her dying husband — Labors in Bethany and Benton 
quarterly meetings — Some disclosures of Free-masonry and facts 
connected with them — Holland Purchase yearly meeting resolves 
respecting them. - - - - - - - - 183 

CHAPTER XIX. 

Mr. Marks' appointment as delegate to the second session of the Free- 
will Baptist General Conference — Travels with Wm. Van Tuyl — 
Attends SpafYord quarterly meeting — Second session of Susquehanna 
yearly meeting — Its rise, &c. — Street meeting in Johnstown, N. Y. — 
Attends Vermont yearly meeting in Oct. 1828 — Masonic discussion, 
&c. — General Conference — Labors in Maine, New Hampshire, and* 
Vermont — Returns to New York. - - - - - 195 

CHAPTER XX. 

Revival in Canandaigua — Death of Wm. Van Tuyl — Labors in Benton 
and Ontario quarterly meetings. - 207 

CHAPTER XXI. 

Third journey to London District, Upper Canada-Tr-Free-commnnion 
Baptists' Annual Conference — Happy death — Result of a conference 
appointed to labor for a union between the Free-will and Free-com- 
munion Baptists in Upper Canada — Returns to New York — Revival in 
Conesus and Sparta — Holland Purchase Yearly meeting in 1829 — 
Fourth journey to London District — Revival at Oxford— His Marriage- 
Third General Conference and revival that followed — Baptism of his 
companion and sketches of her religious experience. - - 214 



Will. CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER XXII. 

Labors from Nov. 1829 to close of the year- — Revival in Middlesex- 
Second session of the Allegany quarterly meeting and particulars of 
its rise— Bethany quarterly meeting and revival at Penfield — Fourth 
General Conference — Fifth tour to Upper Canada — Meeting in the 
asylum for the poor of Ontario county — Interesting particulars of the 
revival in Penfield — Meetings in Scriba and other towns — " Book of 
Mormon" — Labors in various places — Horrid murder in Dansville — 
Attends Allegany, Benton, and Bethany quarterly meetings — Sixth 
tour to Canada — State of Free-will Baptist churches in the province — 
Labors in New York — Attends Ontario and Bethany quarterly meet- 
ings — Holland Purchase yearly meeting, Aug. 1830 — Resolution 
against Masonry. - 233 

CHAPTER XXIII. 

Organization of the Norwich quarterly meeting — Visits in Vermont and 
Connecticut — General Conference in Rhode Island — Labors in that 
State — Revival at Greenville — Journey to Maine and return to Rhode 
Island — Masonic opposition — Labors in different towns — Visits the 
grave-yard and Jews' Synagogue at Newport — Attends Roman Cath- 
olic meeting at Boston — Labors in Maine from Jan. to May, 1831 — 
Journey to Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Vermont — Attends 
New Durham, Sandwich and Wheelock quarterly meetings — Attends 
New Hampshire yearly meeting at. Lisbon — Remarkable revival that 
follows — Labors in New Hampshire — Labors in Limerick, Me., and 
vicinity — Baptism of Samuel Beede, &c. - 245 

CHAPTER XXIV. 

State of the Free-will Baptist denomination in 1831 — Plan to aid in 
removing existing evils — Attends Maine Western yearly meeting — 
Attends fifth General Conference — Book Concern organized — Mr. 
Marks appointed its Agent — First labors as Agent — Attends Wolf- 
boro' quarterly meeting — Masonic opposition — Letter from S. Beede — 
Meetings in different towns — Tour to Rhode Island — Mr. C. G. Fin- 
ney — Meetings in Kittery and Great Falls — Masonic opposition— Labors 
in various towns — Sickness in Holderness, N. H. — Rumor of his 
death — Travels and labors— Severe sickness in Bath, N. H., Jan. 
1832 — Partially recovers and resumes his labors — Confinement with a 
relapse in Randolph, Vt. — Happy state of mind in expectation of 
death — Partial recovery — Letter from S. Beede — Reply — Preaches in 
New Hampshire as health permits — Extracts from correspondence — 
Difficulties attending his labors for the Book Concern — Dyspepsia — 
Missionary letter from Mr. Sutton, in India — Free-will Baptist For- 
eign Mission Society formed — Labors — Records of the first Free-will 
Baptist church — Letter to S. Beede — Attends New Durham quarterly 
meeting — Embarrassments and anxieties — Attends Weare quarterly 
meeting and New Hampshire yearly meeting — Rise of Parsonsfield 
Seminary — Cholera in America — Attends Penobscot yearly meeting — 
Cholera at Montreal — Attends Edgcomb quarterly meeting — Day of 
fasting on account of the pestilence — Issues first edition of Christian 
Melody — Attends New Durham quarterly meeting and preaches at 



CONTENTS. IX. 

Randall's grave — Letters to Benton quarterly meeting and Holland 
Purchase yearly meeting — Tour to Vermont and Maine — Attends a 
ministers' conference in Holderness, N. H. — Letter from S. Beede — 
Attends Vermont yearly meeting — Sixth General Conference in 183*2— 
Purchases the Morning Star Establishment. - 268 

CHAPTER XXV. 

Tour to New York and Upper Canada — Labors in New York — Letter 
on Slavery — Discussion of Campbellism — Returns to New England — 
Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Arrival of Mr. Sutton and 
affecting address — Revival in New Durham — In New Market — Cor- 
respondence — Extraordinary Painting — Attends Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting — Returns to New England — Attends seventh General 
Conference — Letter to Mr. Pike of England — Removal of the printing 
office of the Morning Star to Dover, N. H. — Tour to Maine and severe 
illness at Wilton — Returns to Dover, N. H. — Sickness and death of 
Mr. Beede — Locates in Portsmouth and takes charge of a small 
church — Attends New Hampshire yearly meeting — Extracts from an 
article on missions — Rise of the Free-will Baptist Home Mission 
Society — Mr. Marks appointed Corresponding Secretary — Visits 
Whitfield's tomb — Organization of the Rockingham quarterly meet- 
ing — Labors in Portsmouth and other towns — Attends a ministers' 
conference in Readfield, Me. — Sufferings from dyspepsia — Labors in 
Portsmouth and towns in its vicinity — Attends a protracted meeting in 
Boston — Anti-Slavery character of the Morning Star — Mr. C. G. Fin- 
ney's Revival Lectures — Revival in Portsmouth — George Thompson, 
the Abolitionist — Confession of a man of pleasure — Attends New 
Hampshire Anti-Slavery Society- — Home Mission Anniversary in 
Lisbon, N. H. — Mr. Marks' report and illustration of the principle of 
missionary operations — New Hampshire yearly meeting — Slavery 
discussion — Ordination of Mr. Eli Noyes as missionary to India — 
Visits Mt. Washington — Returns to Portsmouth — Trials in conse- 
quence of temperance principles — Meetings and baptism on the Isle of 
Shoals — Mr. Phillips appointed missionary to India — His marriage to 
Mrs. Beede — Mr. Marks' ill health — Visits Boston — Departure of the 
Missionaries — Attends the eighth General Conference — Resigns his 
Agency for the Book Concern — New Hampshire Legislature refuses 
it an act of Incorporation on account of its Anti-Slavery character — 
Returns to Dover to make a transfer of the Book Concern to a Board 
of Trustees — Visits Upper Canada — Resolutions for holy living. 306 

CHAPTER XXVI. 

Mr. Marks commences labors in Rochester, N. Y., under the patronage 
of the Free-will Baptist (N. Y.) Home Mission Society, in Jan. 
1836 — Letter to Mr. Burr on Slavery — Labors and success — Organizes 
a church — Purchases a lot for a meeting house — Abner Kneeland — 
Failure of the crops and consequent inability of the infant Mission 
Society — Mr. Marks' consequent trials — Attempts to sustain himself 
rather than desert his field of labor — Unprecedented pressure in the 
commercial world— Extracts from his correspondence — Murder of Mr. 
Lyman of Rochester — Trial and execution of the murderer— 111 



X. CONTENTS. 

health — Leaves Rochester, June 1838 — Attends Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting — New York Anti-Slavery Convention — Letter to 
India. - - - - - - - - -- 359 

CHAPTER XXVII. 

Eighth tour to Upper Canada — Labors as an evangelist in the Holland 
Purchase yearly meeting — Dreadful death of an infidel — Revival in 
Warsaw — Pike — Boston, N. Y.— Attendance at quarterly meetings — 
Illness of his wife — Revival in Rochester under the labors of Mr. 
Knapp — Attends Genesee quarterly meeting — Holland Purchase year- 
ly meeting — New York State Temperance Society — Attends the 
tenth General Conference, 1839 — Interesting discusssion of the Slavery 
question — Report of the Book Concern — Resolution of Conference on 
the use of tobacco — Labors through the winter in Ohio, Pennsylvania 
and New York. -'---- 380 

CHAPTER XXVIII. 

Attends the anniversaries in N. Y. in 1840 — Visits places of interest — 
Letter to the World's Anti-Slavery Convention — Preaches in the city 
and urged to labor there — Illness — Leaves for western New York — 
Refuses to travel on the Sabbath — Kind reception from the Baptist 
minister in Syracuse — Preaches once at his request — Evils resulting 
from the disregard of the Sabbath on the Erie canal — Dreadful death 
of two canal boys — Labors in western New York till the 18th of 
June — Attends Holland Purchase yearly meeting — Confined to his 
bed hy a severe attack of bronchitis — Partial recovery, but relinquishes 
preaching two months — In the mean time visits Canada and writes a 
treatise on " The Design of the Lord's Supper" — London quarterly 
meeting — Character of fugitives from American Slavery — Intemper- 
ance in Canada — Returns to New York — Resumes his labors in Sep- 
tember — On account of his health locates in Varysburg — Organizes a 
church in Portageville with which he labors half of the time — Revival 
in Varysburgh — Alarming sickness — Attends Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting — Christian Anti-Slavery Convention in Aubuin — 
Wyoming county Temperance Convention — Lectures on Political 
Abolition in Warsaw — Leaves for the General Conference in Maine 
— Assailed by a robber — Attends Free-communion Baptist Confer- 
ence in Central New York — Street Temperance meetings — Tem- 
perance in Portsmouth — Eleventh General Conference — Lectures 
on Temperance in the street in Brunswick — arrival of Mr. and Mrs. 
Noyes from India — Returns to New York — Adopted daughter— La- 
bors in Varysburg and Java till May 1842— calls to different fields of 
labor — Decides to accept an Agency in Ohio, in the cause of Chris- 
tian Education — Tenth and last journey to Upper Canada— Travels 
and labors for six weeks in western New York. - - - 397 

CHAPTER XXIX. 

Lectures on the duty of voters — Meets Western Reserve Education 
Society in Chester, Ohio, July, 1842— Society purchases a farm for 
their Seminary— School opened— Removes his family to Oberlin— 
Labors for the Education Society till last of Jan. 1843— Studies at 



CONTENTS. XI. 

Oberlin and labors — Call from the Trustees of a Literary Institution 
in Strafford, N. H. — Correspondence — Accepts the call — Labors in 
New Hampshire for three months — Returns to New York — 111 health 
— Labors for Western Reserve Education Society — Health fails — 
Extracts from his correspondence — Health improves — Resumes preach- 
ing — Attends Lake Erie quarterly meeting and Ohio Northern yearly 
meeting — Discussion on baptism — Testimony respecting it — Letter 
from E. Place — Attends the twelfth General Conference in central 
New York, October 1844 — Extract from his speech on the political 
duty of a Christian citizen — Report on secret societies — Book concern — 
Close of Conference — Returns to Ohio — Tempest and dreadful loss of 
life at Buffalo — Wreck of the Robert Fulton — Arrival at Oberlin. 417 

CHAPTER XXX. 

Health declines — Kindness of Professor Finney — Health improves — 
Attends Ohio Northern yearly meeting, June, 1845 — Michigan yearly 
meeting— Letter from D. H. Graham — Relapse — Health again im- 
proves — 'Letter from India — From E. Place — Attends Lorain quarterly 
meeting in September — Relapse — Happy state of mind — Brief diary 
of some of his last remarks — Dictates a Farewell Address to his 
brethren — Carried at his request to the chapel to address the Students 
after he was thought to be dying — Death— Post mortem examination — 
Funeral Sermon — His Farewell Address to Free-will Baptists and the 
world — His Address to the Oberlin Students — Extracts from letters of 
condolence — Resolutions of Associations of churches — Poetic Tributes 
to his memory. --------- 442 

Concluding Remarks, ------- 512 



EMOIRS. 



CHAPTER L 

My parentage, and other particulars till my father's removal to 
New York, fyc. 

My ancestors were of Jewish origin. My father, David Marks, 
3d. was the eldest son of David Marks, 1st. of Burlington, Hart- 
ford county, Ct. who was a grandson of Mordecai Marks, a Jew. 
My mother, Rosanna Merriman, eldest daughter of Chauncey Mer- 
riman, of Southington, in the same county, was married to my fa- 
ther at the commencement of the year 1800. They were both 
members of the Calvinistic Baptist church. After residing in Bur- 
lington for five years following their marriage, they removed to 
the town of Shendaken, Ulster county, N. Y. In the latter town, 
I was born Nov. 4, 1805. I was the fourth child. One, a daugh- 
ter, died before my birth at the age of ten months. At this time 
my mother remarked, with much confidence, that my life would 
be short. " For," said she, " I believe God, by his Holy Spirit, 
has impressed it on my mind, that the child shall live before him, 
as did Samuel, anciently ; and that in early life the Lord will set 
him for the defence of the gospel, and call him to do a great, but a 
short work in the earth." When one year had passed, the dropsy 
in the head, considered by physicians incurable, came near termi- 
nating my mortal existence. My mother's faith was then shaken 
in what she had asserted on the day of my birth ; but God bless- 
ed the use of means, and from the gate of death restored me to 
health. 

One of the first occurrences printed in my recollection, is family 
prayer. As early as I was susceptible of instruction and capable 
of reflection, the truth, that all must die and appear before God, 
2 



14 MEMOIRS OP 

to account for their actions, was solemnly impressed on my mind. 
At the age of four years, a sense of death and judgment caused 
awful feelings to pervade my soul ; particularly one day, when I 
was alone amusing myself with burning the tow of flax ; the dread- 
ful agony of the wicked in hell, represented in the word of God 
by burning with unquenchable fire was instantly brought to mind. 
Looking into the flame, I thought how exceedingly dreadful even 
one moment would be in this fierce burning ; then turning my 
eyes toward the heavens I said within myself, how will my soul 
endure, if yet in sin, at the great judgment day, when God shall 
appear, and set the world on fire? Finally, I concluded that I 
would descend into a well when that period should arrive, and go- 
ing immediately to my mother, told her my resolution. " Ah, my 
son," said she, " the water will boil, and the earth will burn.'' 
Another expedient was suggested. I thought I would hew out a 
place of retreat in a rock, and there hide myself, closing the en- 
trance. On naming this, she replied, " but the rocks will melt." 
My sorrows increased ; but on reflection I hoped ere that time 
should come, life might be ended, and my body buried in the 
earth ; so, telling my mother, I hoped by this to escape, she 
said, " My child, your hope is vain ; for the dead will awake 
.and come out of their graves." My last expedient it now appear- 
ed would fail ; and, retiring to a field, my anguish became great, 
while reflecting that my parents were Christians but I was a sin- 
ner ; tears flowed profusely, and putting my hand on my bosom, I 
cast my eyes toward heaven, and said, " God be merciful to me a 
sinner." Now existence was a burden ; the burning of the tow 
recurred to mind, and I earnestly wished that I was something in- 
animate, even if it were tow, that I might not feel the vengeance 
that would fall upon the wicked. Once as my mother laid me 
down to rest, she said, " soon my son you will exchange the bed 
for the grave, and your clothes for a winding sheet." Often, after 
this, when I lay down at night, my bed reminded me of the grave, 
and the sheets of the grave apparel. About this time, Jeremiah, 
my eldest brother, then eight years of age, was converted to God, 
and publicly professed faith in the Redeemer. Serious thoughts 
of death and judgment continued to exercise my infant powers. 

Very solemn feelings were excited in my mind at the age of 
four years and seven months, by seeing our house wrapped in flames. 
When the fire was discovered, my parents were at the house of 
worship, two miles distant, having left me at home with my two 
elder brothers, Jeremiah and Friend. One of my brothers imme- 
diately ran to the meeting, the other to the neighbor's house for 
assistance. Being much alarmed, I fled, unperceived, with all 
possible haste to the adjacent wood, thinking of nothing but to es- 



DAVID MARKS. 15 

cape the devouring flame. I reached the place of retreat ; but 
while looking on the trees, the recollection of having seen fire 
spread rapidly in the forest, filled me with fresh alarm. The 
leaves were just put forth, and, though green, the expectation that 
they too would burn, and the fire be communicated to them by the 
adjacent fences, induced me to resume my flight. In the mean- 
time, the assembly with my parents had resorted to the flames, 
and immediately the anxious inquiry was made, " Where is Da- 
vid ?" He was not to be found. No one had seen him. An aw- 
ful thought rushed upon their minds — the flames must have con- 
sumed him ! My mother, recollecting her former impressions con- 
cerning my future life, in anguish of soul, cried out, " O Lord, thou 
hast deceived me, and I was deceived ;" and immediately swoon- 
ing, she fell to the ground. A thought that the child might yet be 
alive, induced some of the assembly to search for me ; while oth- 
ers endeavored to extinguish the flames, expecting to discover my 
bones. In my wandering, a path appeared, and, deeming the op- 
posite side more safe, as it presented an obstacle to the fire, I quick- 
ly passed it, and had followed its windings more than a mile, when 
one of the company discovered the object of their search. " Your 
father wishes to see you," said he, and taking me up, carried me, 
till we came within sight of the smoking ruins of my native home. 
The people were still employed in throwing water ; but, on see- 
ing us, they desisted, and my father, with feelings more easily im- 
agined than described, met us, and, clasping me in his arms, said, 
u My son, my son, are you yet alive ?" kissed me and carried me 
to my mother. She soon recovered from her swoon. Her faith 
revived — and rejoicing with great joy, they said, " The dead is 
alive, the lost is found." 

By this, and other misfortunes, my father lost nearly all his prop- 
erty, and soon after returned to Connecticut, wiiere he resided in 
the towns of Bristol and Plymouth more than four years. Dur- 
ing two years of this time, Jeremiah often led brother Friend and 
myself to the chamber, barn, or field ; and there talked to us of 
eternity, taught us to pray and seek after the Lord. While en- 
joying these opportunities, my heart was tenderly affected, and se- 
rious impressions deepened. But a painful scene quickly fol- 
lowed. 

My father journeyed to the western part of New York. Im- 
mediately after his departure, Jeremiah was severely wounded in 
the foot with an axe ; and after a confinement of several weeks, 
an attack of the typhus fever brought wearisome days, lonely 
nights, and caused his flesh to waste away. Six days before his 
death, I went to live with my uncle Marks in Burlington, to attend 
school. Jan. 2, 1813, after my return from school, my uncle told 



16 MEMOIRS OF 

me that my brother was dead. The day before he sat up several 
hours, wrote some, and said he thought he should recover ; but in 
the evening the scene changed. Death had marked him for a 
victim ; and while the sun of life was sitting, he said to my moth- 
er, who was alone with him, " I am dying." Immediately she 
blew a trumpet, to call assistance ; then taking him in her arms, 
he said, " O that I could see papa once more ; but I never shall in 
this world." Deacon Ward, a neighbor, came in, having heard 
the alarm. Being much distressed, Jeremiah said, " My pain of 
body is very great," and once added he wished that he was dead ; 
but immediately recalled it, saying, " I am wrong ; but if it were the 
will of God, I should be glad to be out of pain." He made af- 
fecting remarks concerning his death, and a short time before he 
expired, said, " O, I fear Friend and David will run a wicked 
race." After conversing an hour and a half very calmly, he was 
laid on the bed, and then folding his hands on his bosom, he look- 
ed steadfastly towards heaven. They had now thought he would 
never speak again, when he distinctly said, " Lord Jesus, may I be 
with thee ;" and without a groan or struggle, in one minute and a 
half, his pulse ceased to beat, and his spirit took flight to that land 
whence there is no return. Dea. Ward remarked, that he had of- 
ten been called to attend on death-bed scenes for forty years, but 
had never witnessed one so much composed as this. Jeremiah 
was eleven years and six months of age, more than four years old- 
er than myself. His body was laid in the grave, the top of which 
was covered till my father should return. His death greatly af- 
fected me, for I loved him tenderly ; and when his dying words, 
" I fear they will rim a wicked race," recurred, I felt and mourn- 
ed my loss. No longer could I hear his pious warnings, his af- 
fectionate counsel, and never again would he instruct me to call on 
the name of the Lord. About two months after this, my father 
having returned, his body was taken up, carried into the meeting- 
house, and a sermon delivered. Having heard of instances of bur- 
ial in cases of fits, and that when taken from the earth such had 
been revived, my childish heart beat high, when I thought it might 
be thus with my brother. But as the coffin lid was raised, all my 
hope vanished, and my sorrow returned. That face, once bloom- 
ing in health, was now covered with mould, and those eyes, once 
innocently beaming with affection, were now sunk in their sock- 
ets. A deep sense of my own mortality pervaded my soul, and 
afterward I frequently addressed the throne of grace. But not 
clearly discerning the things of the kingdom, I often joined in folly 
with my juvenile companions, by which the Spirit of God wag 
grieved, and my convictions in some measure effaced. 



DAVID MARKS. 17 

My mother often made observations upon common occurrences, 
that caused deep and lasting impressions on my mind. Once when 
she was killing some fowls, their dying struggles excited my sym- 
pathy, even to weeping, and I asked why she killed them. " Dear 
child," said she, " fowls have to die for man, calves have to die for 
man, sheep have to die for man ; but what is more, Jesus, the Sa- 
vior of the world, has died for man, and soon we must die." At 
another time, she said ; " have you ever observed the young sap- 
ling, how easily you can bend it to the ground ?" I answered 
u Yes." She continued, "Have you also observed that when 
grown to be a tree, it will not bow, but will break first ?" Again 
I answered " Yes ;" and she said, " Learn instruction. Now in 
the morning of life, your heart, like the sapling, is tender, and 
may easily be turned to God ; but when inured to crime and hard- 
ened by transgression, like the stubborn oak, it will not bow." 

When I was nine years old, my father removed to the town of 
Junius, Seneca county, New York. The greater part of the time 
for more than a year after our removal, neglect of eternal things 
marked my conduct ; yet, frequently, after joining my associates in 
play, such condemnation filled my soul, that I would resolve never 
more to engage in idle sports. And though the Spirit of God did 
not entirely forsake me, yet my resolutions were often broken, and 
these scenes of folly and sin against God were repeated. About 
this time, my brother Friend was converted to God. Serious im- 
pressions again returned. But the attachment to my childish plays 
and companions continued ; and during the winter months, we ap- 
pointed one evening in every week for diversion. For this, con- 
science sharply reproved me ; but being unwilling to desist entire- 
ly, I proposed that a part of the time should be spent in learning 
the orthography of words. My proposal was acceded to, but still 
conscience was not satisfied, and I further proposed that we should 
commence our school with prayer. Some of my associates, observ- 
ing they thought it would be well, requested me to address the 
throne of grace ; the request was granted, which so affected me, that 
I could no longer participate in their vanities ; but for a time re- 
mained a spectator, and then feeling condemned for this, wholly 
forsook the meetings. Serious impressions again increased, and 
the fear that there was no mercy for me, that my case was hope- 
less, at times caused me keen distress. For weeks and months, I 
visited the place of secret prayer two or three times a day, till dis- 
couragement and unbelief prevailed on me, for a time, to desist. 
As with others who live in the wicked one, excuses for procrasti- 
nation found way to my heart. The hope, that at some future, un- 
known time, a revival, or some other event would render seeking 
the Lord less difficult, made me asrain indifferent. 
2* 



18 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER II. 

An account of my conversion, with some other particulars till my 
connection with the Freewill Baptists. 

In the Autumn of 1816, when I was nearly eleven years old, 
an alarming occurrence loudly called my attention. While riding 
alone through a wood but a little distance from home, my life was 
much endangered by a sudden fall from a horse. Instantly the 
query rushed upon me, as if a voice from heaven had spoken and 
said, " Had your life here closed, where would your soul have 
been now ?" Conscience answered, " It would have been in hell." 
I stood astonished and amazed. The recollection of my past life, 
of broken promises, and of the many times I had prayed, as I 
thought, earnestly, without finding relief, rushed upon me like a 
flood. The anguish of my soul was great, and tears gushed from 
my eyes. In vain did I regret my existence ; in vain did I envy 
the reptiles of the earth their state. Having been taught that a 
part of mankind were elected to salvation and the rest passed by, 
with great bitterness, the exclamation burst from my bosom, " I 
am a reprobate ; there is no mercy for me." Now did the sor- 
rows of death compass me about, and the pains of hell got hold of 
me. Despair bound my soul with its cruel fetters. Nature itself 
wore a solemn gloom, and even the trees seemed to mourn, and 
the heavens to frown. Every ray of hope was gone, and the an- 
guish of my soul was insupportable. "What shall I do? what 
shall I do ?" was my cry ; then a thought rushed into my mind, 
which in some measure relieved me. " Peradventure God can 
and will have mercy. Christ died for sinners, why not for me ? 
If hell must be my portion, and I must finally perish, I will per- 
ish pleading for mercy." But now, the fate of former promises 
occurred to my mind ; for in the hour of temptation my feelings 
had changed, and my strongest resolutions had failed. What secu- 
rity had I, that this resolution should not, in like manner fail ? I 
felt jealous of my own heart; and this seemed an awful moment, 
on which my eternal destiny was poised. It appeared to me that 
heaven or hell, depended on the keeping, or not keeping of this 
resolution. And I felt unwilling to leave myself the least liberty 
for its violation, lest this dread liberty should be used to my eter- 
nal ruin. So falling upon my knees," and raising my hand towards 
heaven, I made oath unto God, saying, " As long as thou shah 
(five me life and ability, like Daniel, I will T kneel and pray to thee 
thrice in a day, even though my years should be lengthened to three- 
score and ten, and hell be my doom at last" I arose ; my tears 



DAVID MARKS. 19 

ceased ; distress and anxiety were lied ; and though the darkness 
of night veiled the earth, yet nature assumed a new aspect. All 
that met my sight, praised God, and my heart was constrained to 
join the theme. Setting out for home, a sudden rustling among the 
trees reminded me that those forests were inhabited by beasts of 
prey ; but it excited no timidity as usual, neither did it cause me 
to make haste ; and now, for the first time, I was willing to die. 
Something whispered, " How is this ? you are not a Christian." 
u True," was my reply, " but the Judge of all the earth will do 
right." Such a sense of his justice and goodness filled my soul, 
that with sweet composure, I felt to commit my all to Him, and 
thus was quiet from fear of evil. 

Now to fulfill my oath required no effort, for it seemed that my 
eternal destiny depended upon its performance. My constant 
prayer was, that my soul might be born of the Spirit ; but reflec- 
tions on my past life, the just and holy nature of God, who cannot 
look on sin with the least allowance, no longer caused my heart to 
feel condemnation for sin, or to dread his vengeance. I read the 
threatenings of God's word — they moved me not. I brought to 
view the pains of hell — my soul rejoiced and was happy. This 
seemed to me very wrong, and thought I, Christians may rejoice, 
but not sinners. I was now distressed with fears that a state of 
insensibility was taking possession of my heart ; for I labored to 
feel again my former load of guilt, and constantly prayed that con- 
viction might return, but in vain. Heaven seemed deaf to my 
entreaties ; and while thus praying, my heart seemed so hard, that 
dreadful fears seized me, lest conviction had ceased forever ; yet so 
sacred appeared my oath, that not the least temptation to violate it 
troubled my thoughts. Once when bowed before the Lord in se- 
cret, all recollections except of the solemn vow, fled from my mem- 
ory ; and not an idea or a word occurring to mind, the fearful ex- 
pectation was excited, that I should be compelled to rise without 
offering a single petition to Heaven. But finally the words of the 
publican, " God be merciful to me a sinner," came to my recollec- 
tion, and were as soon repeated. Then I arose and returned, 
weeping, because of the hardness of my heart. Again, while 
praying, I used every effort to picture to my view the horrors of 
the burning world, and bring to my soul a feeling sense of the ag- 
onizing pains of the damned ; but instead of this, my soul was 
filled with joy, and the exclamation, " Glory to God !" burst from 
my lips. Then, for the first time, the thought was suggested, thai 
possibly God had already forgiven all. 

Though my opportunity at school had been small, I had fortu- 
nately succeeded in learning to read a little, yet not without spell- 
ing many of the words. My anxiety to become acquainted with 



20 MEMOIRS OF 

the Scriptures, was very great. Yet. as my parents were poor 
and in a new country, we had to endure many privations. Gen- 
erally, labor occupied all my time during the day, and it being dif- 
ficult for us to obtain candles, I resorted to the expedient of climb- 
ing trees to procure the bark of the hickory, which burns with 
much flame ; and by the light of this fire, I commenced reading 
the Bible, with anxious interest and a prayerful heart, frequently 
continuing my studies two or three hours after the family had re- 
tired to rest. As my acquaintance with the experience and evi- 
dences of the Christian increased, the conviction gradually settled 
in my mind, after an examination of my own heart, that one poor 
and unworthy a3 myself, might claim the rich and precious prom- 
ises of the gospel. Then again doubts and fears pained me, lest I 
should build upon a false hope, and finally perish. My prayer to 
God was, " If I have received remission of sins, grant unto me an 
evidence of the same, and forbid that I should trust in anything 
short of that effectual change, which alone can prepare the soul 
for the pure joys of the heavenly world." My mind continued 
thus exercised in supplication, until, though slow of heart to believe, 
a partial witness of having experienced regeneration, gladdened my 
heart, and caused me to exclaim, with the angels, " Over Judah's 
hallowed plain," " Glory to God in the highest ; on earth peace, 
and good will toward men." 

The period from my consecrating myself to God by oath till 
this time, was eighteen months. Soon after, in a conference meet- 
ing of the Calvinistic Baptists, I arose for the first time, repeated 
a hymn that rested with some weight on my mind, and then sat 
down. Some were surprised, for as yet nothing had escaped my 
lips, respecting my state of mind. The deacon asked me if I had 
experienced a change of heart. I was embarrassed, fearing to say 
that I had, or had not ; but after a short pause, I answered, " I 
do not know." lie then remarked, that he had observed many in 
childhood commence apparently a religious course ; but that it 
had given him little satisfaction, as they had generally turned to the 
world in a short time, aud when arrived at manhood, they had be- 
come the worst of men. His words sunk deep into my heart, and, 
with my own trials and fears, shook my confidence. Doubts, like 
'I. rushed again upon me ; for I thought, were I a Christian, 
surely they would take me by the hand and gently lead me in the 
But. being unwilling to give up heaven, I continued more 
fervent in prayer* constantly asking of the Lord wisdom, patience 
and humility, beseeching him to keep me from deception and false 
. Heaven lent a gracious ear, and instead of sinking under 
trials, my faith was increased, and my hope so confirmed, that not 
a doubt remained. And I thought frequently, though the world 



DAVID MARKS. 21 

should dispute, I could but believe Heaven had bestowed the 
" pearl of great price." When a few weeks had passed, I arose 
in a meeting, after hearing the sermon, and confessed the grace of 
God, declaring my conviction, that by the same, my soul had been 
" redeemed from among men." Returning home, great peace glad- 
dened my heart. My faith became more settled, and, at times, my 
joy seemed to be full. I had always supposed that a change of 
heart was accompanied with some outward wonder ; that the Sa- 
vior or an angel would appear in the heavens ; or some sudden 
shock, as of electricity, would for an instant cause pain of body. 
And when Jesus, in a still small voice, removed my guilt and filled 
my soul with peace and joy, experience was so opposite to my ex- 
pectation, that it often seemed impossible, that it could be a saving 
change, which thus caused me to rejoice and love the humble 
saints. 

One rule given in the word of God, whereby we may know 
that we have passed from death unto life, is, love to the brethren. 
This witness is plain ; and when we have certain evidence that 
our attachment to the saints is peculiar to their Christian character, 
and proportionate to the degree of holiness they possess, then we 
may be sure that we have been accepted of the Lord. The Chris- 
tian need not remain in doubts, darkness and tempests, but may 
come to the faith of assurance ; not by waiting for God to work 
miracles for his confirmation, but by searching the Scripture evi- 
dences, proving his own heart, and constantly bearing the cross. 
When Naaman, the Syrian, came to the prophet of Israel, he sup- 
posed that some great thing would be wrought visibly, to effect a 
cure of his leprosy. Thus, many have expected that regeneration 
should effect some change in nature, or that some visible wonder, 
rather than submission of heart and reconciliation to God, should 
give them evidence of salvation. And when a silent voice 
has removed their burden, and composure of soul, with love to 
God and his people, has succeeded, they have passed the time of 
their conversion without a witness of it ; and though unable to find 
their former convictions and condemnation, they have neglected to 
take the cross or embrace the promises, and thus for years have 
walked in darkness, not knowing whither they went. Would such 
diligently search the Scriptures, examine their hearts and try their 
spirit, they would learn the nature and evidence of a saving change, 
and thereby know, as well as Paul, " If their earthly house of this tab- 
ernacle were dissolved, they have a building of God, a house not 
made with hands, eternal in the heavens ;" and instead of continu- 
ing babes in knowledge, they would grow to the stature of men and 
women in Christ Jesus. 



22 MEMOIRS OF 

No revival marked the period of my conversion and public pro- 
fession of the same. Professors were greatly at ease in Zion, and 
scorn, contempt, and derision were heaped upon me. However, 
it affected me little, for the applause and glory of the world ap- 
peared as vanity of vanities ; " All flesh seemed as grass and the 
flower of grass ;" but the approbation of God, as a treasure 
that endureth forever. Though opposition and persecution from 
nearly all were combined to discourage me, yet the Lord gave 
grace and strength equal to my day, and enabled me in all places, 
as opportunity presented, to bear the cross and testify to the truth. 
In the public assembly, even when there was no liberty given, feel- 
ing the Lord required it, I was frequent in my testimonies. For 
this, many thought me forward, but in no other way could I have 
a conscience void of offence toward God and man. 

In the fall of the year 1818, upon relating my experience to 
the Calvinistic Baptist church in Junius, they received me as a 
candidate for baptism ; but as it was then evening, rainy, and the 
water two miles distant, through woods, they deferred its perform- 
ance till the next covenant meeting. At the appointed time, I at- 
tended with a change of raiment ; but here unexpected trials came 
upon me. The minister being unable to attend, in consequence of 
illness, a licensed preacher of Junius church, spoke to the people. 
I was not only disappointed, in not being baptized, but not a mem- 
ber of the church spoke a word of comfort to me, or even asked 
of my welfare. Had I not been a child, weak and inexperienced, 
perhaps this coldness would not have been noticed : but it touched 
a tender cord. I returned home much depressed in spirit, feeling 
as though I had no one to encourage or lead me in the way of du- 
ty. But the Lord Avas my helper, and God was my refuge ; his 
arm upheld me, and he turned my sorrow into rejoicing. After 
this, I continued to attend their covenant meetings, in which they 
practised speaking to each member of the church, but gave no lib- 
erty to others. Believing the command to be baptized still obli- 
gatory, and feeling anxious to walk in the path of obedience, twice, 
at different periods, I spoke without liberty, at the close of the 
meeting, and renewed my request for baptism ; but received no 
direct answer. None of the members pretended even to speak to 
me, and the same coldness was constantly manifested on all occa- 
sions. The cause I knew not ; but it finally worked for my good, 
as it taught me, that in the Rock of ages alone should be my trust 
and my strength. 

My parents, believing the ministry would be the great work of 
my life, and that a collegiate course of study was a necessary 
preparation, concluded to place me in a free school, as they them- 
selves were unable to defray the consequent expense. Having 



DAVID MARKS. 23 

heard that in Providence, R. L, provisions were made for educat- 
ing the indigent, I left home alone at the age of thirteen, in com- 
pliance with the wishes of my parents, to travel on foot, among 
strangers, the distance of 368 miles, expecting to be absent five or 
six years. My Heavenly Father provided me friends. Strangers, 
when they learned the object of my journey, were very kind, of- 
ten bestowing a little money to defray my expenses : sometimes 
they would weep, and frequently express much surprise upon see- 
ing a child alone, so far from home. At times, while thinking of 
my friends beneath the parental roof, lonely and solitary feelings 
weighed down my spirit ; yet the Lord of Hosts was my com- 
forter. He dispersed the gloom, by pouring heavenly consolation 
into my bosom. Frequent opportunities of riding relieved, in a 
great measure, the tediousness of the journey. In twelve days, 
I reached Providence, and was kindly received by Mr. Messers, 
President of Brown University, to whom I delivered a letter from 
my parents. After a stay of two days, he informed me that tui- 
tion would be free, but no provision was made for board and cloth- 
ing ; and advised me to go to an Institution in Mass. where he 
thought a reception would be afforded, agreeably to my wishes.* 
He offered me a letter of introduction to the Directors of that 
Institution, but the fear that admission would not be granted, and 
an expectation, that equal privileges might be enjoyed nearer 
home, in Hamilton, N. York, where a free school was soon to be 
established, induced me to return homeward. My heart was not 
free from trial and temptation. While traveling one evening near 
Albany, I came to a toll bridge, and all around being silent, the 
following suggestions were presented. " You are now a child, in 
a land of strangers, without sufficient money to bear your expen- 
ses to your parents ; you can climb this gate, pass over the bridge, 
without harming it, and thus save a little, that will do you good, 
without injury to any one." With these views, I passed over the 
gate, when feelings of guilt and condemnation so burdened me, 
that I turned aside to a retired place, and there laid my case be- 
fore the Lord, beseeching him to lead me in the path of duty, and 
keep me from sinning against him. Feeling an impression to re- 
turn, and like an honest child, pay for crossing the bridge, I sin- 
cerely wished myself the other side of the gate. Thinking the 
deed must be undone, and not wishing it to be known, I conclud- 
ed to climb the gate, and then request to have it opened for my 
passage ; but while in the act of getting over, a woman heard me, 
and coining to the door, much to my alarm, exclaimed ; u What ! 

* I was afterwards informed that some of the students much regretted they had not 
known my case ; and that they said had they known it, they would have sustained me 
through a course of study. 



24 MEMOIRS OF 

are you climbing the gate ?" Trembling, I related to her my situ- 
ation, the struggle of my mind with regard to duty, and my wish 
to pay the toll. Laughing heartily, she replied, " Ah, dear child, 
you may go free, I will receive nothing, and may blessings follow 
you." She then opened the gate, when, with a light heart and an 
approving conscience, I continued my journey, and reached home, 
after an absence of twenty-five days. 

Passages were so frequently given me in stages and in other car- 
riages, that not more than one third of this journey was perform- 
ed on foot. And with few exceptions, those persons with whom 
I tarried and received of their liberality, would accept any recom- 
pense ; but generally conversed familiarly with me, and asked me to 
pray with them. In compliance with their invitations, my soul was 
often greatly blessed. After my return, the information that none 
could be freely educated in Hamilton without bail, that should be 
accountable for the expense, in case they should ever preach any 
other doctrine than that believed by the C. Baptists, induced me to 
relinquish the idea of pursuing a course of literary study? 

I continued to attend the Baptist covenant meetings, and was 
treated with the same studied coldness as before. Six months had 
passed, since the church received me as a candidate for baptism, 
and still all was silence on the subject. As yet, the vote of fel- 
lowship had neither been recalled nor disannulled. A sense of the 
solemn duty lay so heavily on my mind, that I again renewed the 
request, in case they still believed me a fit subject ; and if not, I 
desired them to let me know it. They now discussed the subject, 
and observed, that when I was received, a part of the church on- 
ly was present, consequently, the absent members were unacquaint- 
ed with my experience ; and added, that some of those, who did 
receive me, on consideration had changed their minds. Being re- 
quested, I again related my experience, and my present exercises. 
They wished to know my sentiments, concerning particular and 
unconditional election, and communion, as believed and practiced 
by them. I tolcl them it was a doubt in my mind, whether those 
views were agreeable to the Scriptures. The whole church, with 
one exception, voted they were not satisfied with my experience, 
and could not receive me. Trials now pressed heavily upon me, 
and I felt like a lone and friendless child. Something whispered, 
" What folly to think you are a Christian, when men of piety and 
experience disown you. You are but a child, and do you know 
more than the whole church ?" My temptations were very great. 
But to the Lord only could I go ; and had he not granted succor, 
by especially manifesting himself, despondence would have discour- 
aged me, and that, perhaps, forever. My oath was sacred ; and 
its performance diligently attended. The grace of God was suffi- 



DAVID MARKS. 25 

cient for me, and if ever the consolation of his Spirit gladdened 
my heart, it did in those days. My peace became like a river, and 
wintry trials gave place to the cheering joys of spring and sum- 
mer. I attended meetings with different denominations, particu- 
larly the Methodist, and often had happy seasons, feeling my spir- 
itual strength renewed. But their sentiments not being in every 
particular congenial with my own, I could not find that my home 
was with them. 

In the month of July, 1819, Elder Zebulon Dean, and his com- 
panion, having heard of my situation, and feeling interested, sent 
an appointment to our neighborhood, and came thirty miles, accom- 
panied by brother Samuel Wire, then an unordained preacher, and 
two other brethren. They were Freewill Baptists, and the first of 
whom I had any knowledge. On Saturday, July 10th, I met with 
them and learned their sentiments and spirit, which so well accord- 
ed with my own views and feelings, that desiring to be baptized, 
I related to them my experience and sentiments, also the manner 
in which my application to unite with the Baptist church had been 
received and afterwards rejected. They expressed satisfaction 
with my experience, approved of my sentiments, and the next day, 
being the Sabbath, a meeting was appointed for preaching and ex- 
amination, at the house where the Baptist church usually met for 
worship. They having been invited to attend, were generally 
present, with a large concourse of people. After sermon, being 
requested, I stood upon a bench, and again related the dealings of 
the Lord with me. Elder Dean requested the church to state the 
reason why they did not receive me. After a space of silence, 
one of the members answered, that it had been understood the 
child was disobedient to his parents. This report to me was new ; 
but on being traced to its source in presence of the assembly, it 
was manifest, that it had originated in misunderstanding ; and as 
it was contradicted by my parents and others, Elder Dean still 
called, not only on the church, but on the whole assembly, to show 
if they knew any reason that should debar me from the privileges 
of the house of God, and if not, charged them forever to hold 
their peace. Nothing more being said, the assembly resorted to 
the water. To me, this was a long desired and pleasant hour. 
When led into the stream, feeling impressed to address the people, 
I turned and declared to them my weariness of transgression, and 
my determination, through grace, forever to forsake all sin, the 
way of the wicked, and to travel the narrow way to the city of 
God. After earnestly soliciting those of my age and all sinners 
to begin with me to seek a better world, I assured them if they 
would not, I must leave them forever ; and called heaven and earth, 
the assembly, and even the water in which I stood, to record my 
3 



26 MEMOIRS OF 

separation from the world, and to witness against me in the judg- 
ment day, if I should ever forsake the Lord ; then, having been 
laid in the baptismal grave and raised again, I went on my way 
rejoicing; 

On the 17th of the same month, I attended the Benton Quarter- 
ly Meeting of the Freewill Baptists, in the town of Phelps, eigh- 
teen miles from my father's, and was there received a member of 
the church in that place. Five were baptized, and a profitable 
season was enjoyed. After this, Elder Dean and brother Wire 
frequently preached in Junius. A revival followed their labors, in 
which some of my former persecutors were converted to the faith 
of the gospel. In the ensuing autumn, brother Wire was ordain- 
ed. He and Elder Dean baptized fifteen in Junius, who united 
with the church in Phelps ; but in January following, they were 
dismissed and acknowledged a church in Junius, taking the Scrip- 
tures for their only rule of faith and practice. Being absent at 
the time of its organization, I did not become one of its members 
till the ensuing spring. This church walked in gospel order sever- 
al months, and enjoyed many happy seasons. But the summer of 
prosperity passed, and the winter of adversity succeeded. New 
and unexpected trials brought heaviness and mourning. Seven or 
eight, who first united and were well engaged, soon turned aside 
after satan and walked no more with us. Iniquity abounding, the 
love of some waxed cold. Every feeling of my soul was pained, 
when those with whom I had taken sweet counsel, thus wounded 
the innocent cause of Jesus and brought it into reproach. But 
while our number decreased by excommunications, the Lord more 
than supplied the vacancies by adding to the church of such as 
should be saved. Determined, by the help of God, to walk in the 
truth and keep all the commandments, I embraced every opportu- 
nity of attending meetings of worship ; when generally my spirit 
was pressed within me to warn the wicked of the necessity of a 
preparation to meet God ; and I seldom remained silent, as this 
brought condemnation to my soul. 



DAVID MARKS. 27 



CHAPTER m. 

Call to the ministry, and the particulars of my exercises and gospel 
labors for three months. 

Nov. 4, 1820. completed my fifteenth year. On this day, going 
alone into a wood on a high hill, while the rain was descending, I 
fell upon the ground, and formally dedicated myself anew to God, 
promising faithfulness and full submission to his will. In this ded- 
ication, casting my eyes upon the surrounding country, I had a view 
of the gospel harvest, and felt the first serious impression, that du- 
ty would call me to labor therein. 

On Jan. 1, 1821, having been solicited by Elder Dean, I left 
home and went to Benton and Milo, where a revival was pro- 
gressing, and there attended several meetings with the Elder, 
generally giving an exhortation after sermon. Thus three weeks 
quickly passed, when my parents, meeting me at the Ben- 
ton Quarterly Meeting, in Phelps, desired my immediate re- 
turn. Elders Dean and Fowler, after some entreaty, obtained their 
leave for my attendance at an extra Quarterly Meeting in Ontario. 
My parents gave me liberty to accompany Elder Dean to several 
other places also, provided I should first return with them. Ac- 
cordingly I returned home, and after a stay of two days, I left on 
Wednesday for Ontario, forty miles distant. A deep snow had 
fallen, which was much drifted, and the weather was extremely 
' cold, insomuch that few ventured from their firesides. After wad- 
ing through the snow thirteen miles, and suffering considerably, I 
found my toes were frozen, and consequently proceeded no farther 
till the next day.* Arriving at Ontario, I was glad to meet Eld- 
ers Dean and Fowler. At this meeting some refreshing was en- 
joyed, and it pleased the Lord to give me freedom while speaking 
in his name. After its close, Elder Dean took me with him to 
Benton, Milo, and Poultney. In the latter place, the power of 
God was manifest hi our meeting. One cried aloud for mercy, 
and soon after professed to find pardon. Others were seriously 
affected, but suffered the enemy to catch away the seed that was 
sown in their hearts. 

Returning to Benton, I attended a few meetings. During this 
period, one day when the rain and snow were descending on 
the earth, while at the house of Elder Dean, I felt the first direct 
impulse as if from Heaven, " Go thou and preach the gospel." 
Every surrounding object now assumed a mournful aspect ; and 

* Afterwards, I heard of niiie persons, who, on this day, were frozen to death at dif- 
ferent places in this section. 



28 MEMOIRS OF 

retiring immediately to a wood on the shore of Seneca lake, half a 
mile from any house, I cast myself upon the beach, where the rest- 
less waves uttered a hoarse murmur on one side, and the bleak 
winds rustled in the forest on the other. Raising a tearful eye to 
Heaven, I exclaimed, " O my God, is this truly from thee ? and 
must I, an ignorant child, go and preach thy gospel?" After 
weeping awhile upon the ground, I arose and queried thus with 
myself; " Can it be, that God will pass by the learned, the wise ? 
the experienced, and choose a child of fifteen years to preach the 
gospel ?" When about to answer in the negative, I cast my eyes 
eastward as I arose, and in an instant, by impression, saw myself 
a friendless child, running to and fro in the earth to warn the 
wicked of their danger. From these impressions, I began to gath- 
er that God would put me into his vineyard, and that the time 
was at hand. A view of leaving parental care, the society of 
home, of wandering in a land of strangers, while yet but a child, 
of facing the bleak storms, and enduring the fatigues of journey- 
ing oft, and of the trials and persecutions that awaited me, now 
rushed upon my soul, overpowered my feelings, and constrained 
me to weep aloud. After this burst of grief had a little abated, I 
said, " Lord, I am a child, how can I preach ?" and walking over 
the water on a fallen tree, I gazed therein, and thought, how 
pleasant would be a watery tomb, if it might hide me from a life 
of exile. A sweet voice whispered, " My grace is sufficient for 
thee. Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings, I have perfect- 
ed praise." Duty was made plain ; I consented to walk in the 
path of obedience, and peace of soul ensued. 

On my return to Junius, finding my parents unwilling to give 
me permission to leave them again, I related to them my exer- 
cise of mind, and impression of the duty God required of me ; and 
added, if they thought it would be right to keep me at home, they 
would be accountable, and my conscience would be clear in the 
sight of Heaven. They thought they should be justifiable in thus 
doing, and told me my labor was so much needed, they could not 
spare, me. I returned to my former avocations, but nature seem- 
ed clothed with solemnity ; the concerns of earth seemed of little 
moment ; the hapless children of men, sinking to wo by unbelief, 
were constantly presented to my view. Day and night I wept and 
mourned for them at mercy's altar. Sleep often fled my pillow, 
while it was bedewed with tears. 

One evening, after retiring to rest, a sense of the state of the 
wicked rolled upon my mind ; and a little after midnight, I retired 
to the lonely forest, and there prostrated myself on the snow. Du- 
ty called me to go out into the world, and warn my fellow crea- 
tures to flee from the wrath to come ; to proclaim the glad tidings 



DAVID MARKS. 2*5* 

of salvation, "the acceptable year of the Lord, and the day of ven- 
geance of our God." Again, a view of the storms of opposition 
and persecution that awaited me, was suddenly presented, together 
with the painful scene of leaving the tender care of those dear 
parents, who from the days of infancy had guided the steps of my 
childhood, and checked its waywardness. My beloved brothers 
and dear sister clung to my affections. I recollected my scanty 
education, having enjoyed the advantages of a school only ten 
months ; and had to reflect on my situation, destitute even of con- 
venient raiment. I thought, surely men will despise my youth 
as well as my counsel, and the truth will be disgraced. Yet the 
path in which God was calling me to walk, was made plain ; and 
in obedience alone was peace. Clay had been used to open the 
eyes of the blind, and the power of God was still the same. Re- 
signing myself to his will, my heart was encouraged, and I desired 
the Lord to open the way, that my whole time might be devoted 
to warn the unconverted, and point them to the Lamb of God : 
and I believed that I should bear patiently their abuse, contempt, 
and reproach. These exercises of mind continued and increased, 
while sorrow was depicted on my countenance. In my sleeping 
and waking moments, I felt that the blood of souls would be re- 
quired at my hand, and that 6 wo' would be mine, if I preached 
not the gospel. 

One day while cutting trees hi the wood, I became almost lost to 
all sense of my labor, and frequently sat down, and wept for the 
miseries that awaited the ungodly. My father, observing tins, 
called me to the house. Endeavoring to conceal my grief, I obey- 
ed his call without any suspicion of his motive. Giving me a 
chair, he asked me to sit down. This unusual manner excited my 
surprise ; I observed both his countenance and my mother's were 
sad, and they appeared to have been weeping. With an agitated 
voice, my father said tenderly, " My son, why have you been weep- 
ing ?" Till now, I had not thought my grief had been discover- 
ed ; but after a pause, I answered : " The Lord is calling me to 
warn poor perishing sinners of their danger, but I cannot go, for 
my parents are unwilling." They burst into tears, and my father 
said, " My son, you may go. For some time we have felt we 
were like Pharaoh, who would not let the children of Israel go to 
worship God in the wilderness. We give you your time, and will 
no longer detain you." My feelings were overpowered. Our 
tears mingled together, and I thanked God. 

At this time a great revival was progressing in Brutus and Ca- 

millus, twenty miles from Junius. Feeling anxious to see this work,. 

and labor in it according to my ability, I left home, walked fifteen 

miles to Brutus, and spent the night among strangers, who were 

3* 



§0 MEHOIRS OF 

kind. The next day, understanding Elder E. Shaw would preach 
and baptize about four miles from the place of my lodging, I went 
to his meeting. I knew no difference among Christians, still I 
closely watched all that passed, felt much interested, and thought 
the countenances of the people showed who among them were the 
followers of the Lamb. After preaching, several spoke of the 
things God had done for them, and it seemed that I was in my fa- 
ther's family. Standing upon a bench in order to see the assem- 
bly, I exhorted them a few moments, and remarked, that as the 
antediluvians were disobedient, while the ark was preparing, and 
the flood destroyed them ; so if they in this revival, and in this 
life, were indifferent, the Lord would send a storm of lire, and de- 
stroy them in like manner. I enjoyed much freedom, and it pleas- 
ed the Lord to touch the assembly. After meeting, many spoke 
with me, invited me to their houses, and to attend different meet- 
ings, so that I no more felt as a stranger or wanted an open door- 
At the conclusion, Elder Shaw baptized eleven, who came out of 
the stream, apparently very happy, and some of them shouted for 
joy. The evening was spent in a prayer meeting that continued 
nearly all night, in which three professed to be converted. 

Several days following were spent in Brutus, attending prayer, 
conference, and preaching meetings, and visiting families. I em- 
braced every opportunity of testifying to all, small and great, rich 
and poor, both publicly and from house to house, repentance to- 
ward God and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ. Some were awak- 
ened, and professed to obtain reconciliation with God. In one of 
my visits at a public house, I desired to pray with the family, but 
was denied ; then I requested the privilege of praying in the bar- 
room, where the traveller is allowed to swear without asking leave, 
but this also was denied. K ejecting that the street was free, and ob- 
serving there would be liberty there, I went out and kneeled down 
before the house, and besought the Lord to have mercy on this- 
family. Li the meantime, I was afterward informed, the landlord 
took a horse-whip, and came out to drive me away from prayer. 
and whip me from the place ; but meeting a young man of the 
Presbyterian church at his door, who had just commenced preach- 
ing, he seized him by the collar, and said, " You rascal, why have 
you sent that boy here to pray ?" The young man replied, " I 
have not : God sent him." Before the dispute ended, I was visit- 
ing other families. Still the revival passed, and this family took 
not warning to forsake their sins, neither shared they in the work. 

In that part of Brutus called Jericho, a certain young man, while 
I was exhorting him to repentance, swore very wickedly, for which 
I told him, he must give account to God. He raised his axe, and 
bid me, " Be gone," swearing if I said any more, he would throw 



DAVID MAKKS. 31 

it at my head. Turning to go away, I replied, " Remember for 
all these things, God will bring thee into judgment." He appear- 
ed angry, and casting down his axe, took up a stick of wood with 
both hands, and threw at me. I was then about a rod from him, 
and immediately stopped in order to suffer patiently the effects of 
his wrath, hoping that conviction might fasten on his heart. The 
stick passed just over my head ; he threw a second, that passed be- 
hind me ; a third, which only touched my leg ; a fourth, that just 
missed me. It really seemed the Lord was my defence. Not sat- 
isfied with these attempts at abuse, he came with a loaded horse- 
whip, and gave me a. severe blow, which caused exquisite pain, 
and left its mark for two weeks. His father, with some others, 
stopped him, and prevented any further violence. Proceeding a 
little distance on my way, I felt grieved at his awful situation, and 
prayed God to have mercy on his soul. While on my kness, the 
young man passed by, and swearing very wickedly, loaded me with 
curses. 

In the latter part of my stay in these regions, I went into Ca- 
millus, and attended several meetings in the village of Elbridge. 
where the revival was progressing powerfully, and visited consid- 
erably from house to house, praying with, the anxious and exhort- 
ing them to resign every thing for Jesus' sake. In the family of a 
certain lawyer, where I had been invited, I enjoyed much freedom 
in conversation and prayer. One of the daughters was awakened 
to seek the " pearl of great price." Shortly afterward, her father 
told me that she had become discouraged, and invited me to call 
again. I complied with his request, and again prayed with her, 
and she again renewed her covenant. Soon after this, she was 
converted, and publicly professed faith in Christ. Within the cir- 
cle of my visits, was the family of a respectable merchant, who 
himself was a lover of religion ; but his companion was opposed to 
the revival. I requested liberty to pray, which was granted ; and 
my poor heart felt encouraged, when, as I arose, his wife was in 
tears. After adding a few words of exhortation, I went out ; the 
merchant following, spoke affectionately to me, and left a half dol- 
lar in my hand. Soon after, in compliance with his request, I vis- 
ited them a. second time, and prayed with his companion, who 
again seemed affected, but not fully persuaded to embrace Christ. 
Alas! how many wait for a convenient season, to their own de- 
struction. 

In the east part of Camillus, I attended several meetings, pass- 
ed through some severe trials, and spent many solitary hours, feeling 
like a lonely stranger in the earth, often weeping till my eyes were 
sore. Persecution met me on almost every hand ; some said the 
lad ought to be whipped home, &c. At an evening meeting where 



32 MEMOIRS OF 

Elder Morrill preached, I spoke in exhortation. After its close. 
no one inviting me to a lodging, I was left alone in the house. But 
soon after, Elder Morrill kindly inquired for me, returned, and took 
me to the place where he was staying. The grief and discourage- 
ment that overcame me, touched his heart ; and taking me into 
his lap, as he would a child, he spoke words of consolation that 
gave me relief. I enjoyed much satisfaction in the revival in 
these towns ; and notwithstanding my severe trials, my faith was con- 
firmed, that duty called me to labor in the vineyard of the Lord ; and 
my heart was encouraged by the success with which God blessed 
my feeble endeavors in the awakening and conversion of a few. 

It was calculated, that in Brutus, Camillus, and the adjacent 
towns, six or seven hundred professed to pass from death unto life. 
In this work I labored about one month and attended forty-four 
meetings ; but did not confine myself to a text, or pretend to ser- 
monize. AYIien about to return home, I was much interested at 
Treat settlement, with Moses Manrow, a lad of about fifteen years, 
belonging to the denomination called Christian. He exhibited much 
talent in public speaking, for one of his age, appeared humble, and de- 
desired to travel with me. The proposal was pleasing, for I believed 
he would make a good yoke fellow in the gospel ; and being admit- 
ted as a companion, on the 17th of April, 1821, he accompanied 
me on my return to my parents. 



CHAPTER IV. 

Particulars of a three months' journey to Holland Purchase. 

A week soon passed in the society of the Family circle, and its 
enjoyment was sweet to my soul. During this period, my mother 
conversed and advised much with me on such subjects as she 
thought would 'be useful; a presentiment seeming fixed in her 
mind, that she was enjoying the last opportunity she should ever 
have, to bestow her counsel. Her words sunk deep into my heart, 
and, with thankfulness, I blessed God for a pious and affectionate 
mother. The passing moments seemed precious, while I listened 
to the sweet accents that fell from her lips, and endeavored to trea- 
sure up the instruction she was giving me. Home was pleasant ; 
but the time was at hand that required my departure. 



DAVID MARKS. 33 

The church in Junius had given me a letter of commendation ; 
and the morning of April 26, was appointed for my departure. It 
dawned a beautiful morning ; but grief sat heavy on our hearts. 
Together we bowed at the altar of mercy, where often in days that 
are past, we had felt the consolations of Heaven, and had been 
united to each other by ties stronger than those of natural affection. 
My mother, with a trembling voice, called on the name of the 
Lord, and fervently entreated, that his preserving power and choice 
blessings might attend her beloved son, just going from her care, 
perhaps for ever. Often she had prayed for me — and bitter now 
was the thought, that this might be the last time I should ever hear 
her supplications in my behalf. The moment of separation had 
come ; and giving my brothers and sisters the parting hand, I pass- 
ed from the parental roof. My parents followed me to the corner 
of the house. The weeping father then took me by the hand, and 
in a faltering voice, said, "Whenever you wish to return, my 
house shall be your home. God bless you, my son. Farewell.' ' 
My dear mother then giving me a dollar, grasped my hand, and 
pressed it affectionately. On casting a look at her features, I saw 
they were convulsed ; the big swelling tears rolling fast from her 
eyes, betrayed the conflict in her bosom. Her chin quivered, her 
lips moved, and she faintly articulated, u Adieu ! my child, adieu ! 
The Lord go with thee." My spirit almost failed within me, while 
I witnessed their agonizing emotions. Bidding them farewell, I 
sighed adieu, again and again. But O, the feelings of my heart! 
Where am I going ? Into the wide world ; to face its frowns ; en- 
dure its taunts and vile reproaches, as once my Master did. But, 
" It is enough that the servant be as his lord." Coming to a rise 
of ground, in sight of my father's house, I turned to view once 
more the beloved forms of those dear parents, and cast on them my 
last look. They were standing where we parted, apparently weep- 
ing, and folio whig with their eyes the departing child, as though 
anxious to catch the last glimpse. My mother's face was some- 
what bowed down, and the sight touched again every tender feel- 
ing, awakening all my sympathy, till, in addition to my own, their 
sorrow became my sorrow. I gave another look, thinking perhaps 
it was the last, then sighed farewell. The places where I had 
passed the scenes of childhood, now met my sight, and seemed 
bound to my affections by a thousand tender associations. But 
while grief was almost bursting my heart, the sweet promise of 
Christ, contained in Mark 10:29, 30, dropped as if from heaven in- 
to my soul; "There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, 
or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for 
my sake, and the gospel's, but he shall receive a hundred fold now 
in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and 



34 MEMOIRS OF 

children, and lands, with persecutions ; and in the world to come 
eternal life." My mourning was now turned into rejoicing, and 
my tears into songs of praise. 

After walking twenty-one miles, in company with the lad before 
mentioned, we found entertainment for the night a few miles south 
of Geneva, with a Congregationalist family, who were kind. In 
the morning we proceeded to Benton; and there visited from 
house to house, conversing with all, as opportunity presented, upon 
the importance and necessity of a speedy preparation to meet God. 
A young man at a tavern, whom I thus counselled, scoffed at me, 
and ridiculed religion. My soul was pained, and falling on my 
knees, I besought the Lord to touch the heart of this young man 
by his Spirit — give him to see the aggravated nature of his trans- 
gressions, and to feel his need of the Savior. While thus suppli- 
cating the mercy of God, the young man continued to talk in a 
loud tone of voice, and finally asked me to take some tobacco. His 
mother, though a professor, instead of reproving him, reprimanded 
me severely, for going about talking to people older than myself. 
After justifying my practice, by telling her I believed the Lord re- 
quired it at my hand, she closed the conversation with a remark too 
vulgar to name. Taking leave of them, I went on my way, sigh- 
ing for the evil done by professors, who are destitute of the mind 
that was in Christ Jesus. Their conduct strengthens the hands of 
the wicked. They enter not into the kingdom themselves, and 
them that would enter, they hinder. 

April 29, Sabbath, we attended a meeting in Milo — in which I 
spake a few minutes under considerable embarrassment — and after- 
ward retired to a wood much depressed in spirit, and sorely pained 
with doubts and fears, lest I had mistaken the path of duty in at- 
tempting to labor in Zion. Returning to the house of a friend, and 
finding no relief, I determined to fast and pray. In doing this, all 
doubts and gloom were dispersed, and my heart was encouraged to 
continue in the work of the Lord. 

Tuesday, May 1, I spoke to a crowded and solemn audience, and 
it was a season of refreshing to my soul. Meeting an assembly at 
the house of Deacon Knapp, in Wayne, I spoke from this text, — 
" The wages of sin is death ; but the gift of God is eternal life, 
through Jesus Christ our Lord." The Holy Spirit touched the 
hearts of some, and many wept. Thursday, in a meeting on the 
east side of Crooked lake, the Lord was with me, and his Spirit at- 
tended the word. After this, crossing the lake near Bluff Point, 
and walking a few miles^ into Poultney, I spoke to an assembly ; 
but to me it was a barren season, and the language of my heart 
was, < how can I preach the gospel to a hard-hearted and gainsay- 
ing people.' Finding an answer, " My grace is sufficient for thee;' 



DAVID MARKS. 35 

we went to the north part of Poultney, and there spoke the word 
to a few, who heard with candor. 

Saturday, May 5, I went to Jerusalem, and gave out appoint- 
ments for the next day. Sabbath morning, at the hour of nine, we 
met for worship on the west hill in Jerusalem. The assembly was 
large, and it was a time of Emmanuel's power : several wept, and 
kneeled for prayers. At one o'clock, P. M., the Lord assisted me 
in speaking to a crowded and solemn assembly on the east hill of 
Jerusalem: two manifested a resolution to seek the Lord. At 
three o'clock, P. M., I met another congregation in the north part 
of the town, and enjoyed the presence of my Master. Here, M. 
Manrow left me suddenly, without assigning any reason. At six 
in the evening, I attended a fourth meeting in Middlesex, and the 
next day walked twelve miles, and attended two meetings. The 
day following, I visited Canandaigua ; and meeting the Episcopa- 
lian minister in the street, stated to him my desire to speak to the 
people concerning the things of eternity. " What !" said he, " are 
you preaching? You are not capable of preaching. You cannot 
preach. We put young gifts to learning, till they become men." 
He then left me. After several fruitless attempts to find a house 
open for meeting, among professed Christians, I turned to " Cesar's 
kingdom," and without difficulty obtamed leave to hold a meeting 
in the court house. About one hundred assembled. While stating 
in my introduction, the reason of my leaving home, and the partic- 
ular exercises of my mind concerning public speaking, a gentle- 
man in the jurors' seat, looked me steadfastly in the face, and said, 
* ; Young man, we came to hear you preach ; not to hear your ex- 
perience. If you are going to preach, we wish you to proceed." 
This somewhat confused me ; however I named a text, and pro- 
ceeded with some embarrassment. About twenty left the assembly 
before the conclusion of the discourse. At the close of the meet- 
ing, one gentleman gave me half a dollar, and another, a small 
piece. During my discourse, I observed two men without the court 
house in earnest conversation, and pointing towards me; and when 
passing the jail, a woman came to the door, and asked me a num- 
ber of questions concerning my manner of life. After proceeding 
a little distance, I saw a man leave the jail, and come after me in a 
wagon with much speed. These circumstances, together with that 
of many having left the meeting, induced me to think they might 
possibly look on me with suspicion, and wish to put me in jail. 
The man overtook me, said he supposed I was a stranger, and in- 
vited me to go home with him. As it was three miles from my 
purposed route, it was after considerable solicitation that I return- 
ed. He was a Calvinistic Baptist, and treated me as a friend. 



36 MEMOIRS OF 

The little good effect apparent from my last meeting, and the 
contempt manifested at my endeavors to warn the wicked, bore 
heavily upon me. In addition to this, my friend told me, he thought 
my learning was not sufficient to make my public addresses gener- 
ally interesting ; and advised me to go home and stay, till I should 
be of age, or at least two or three years. I now felt a deeper lone- 
liness than I had ever before experienced. Though entreated, I 
could not eat, but retired to my lodging, where sleep was a stran- 
ger, and there gave vent to my grief, till my eyes were sore with 
weeping. In the morning my grief was not assuaged, nor the foun- 
tain of my tears drained. I ate no breakfast, but went my way 
before the sun rose, passed through the village of Cananclaigua into 
Gorham, and there turned aside in a wood, and laid myself on the 
earth. My sorrow seemed greater than I could bear ; and life 
seemed such a burden, that I was tempted to starve myself. As 
this would be sin, I dared not resolve, — but thought, could I go 
home, gladly would I haste to parental care. Beneath the shady 
boughs of Gorham, I mourned, somewhat like Jonah under the 
gourd, and desired death, unless my faith and hope should be in- 
creased ; then lifting my eyes toward heaven, I said, * O Lord, 
why hast thou sent me, a child, when men of experience might go ? 
Why hast thou called an ignorant youth, and left the learned at 
home ? I am had in derision, and mocked by the enemies of the 
cross.' Two ways appeared ; either to go home, and renounce all 
ideas of ever attempting to preach again, and thus please the great- 
er part of my acquaintance, many of my brethren, and my natural 
mind — or to continue laboring in the vineyard, and face a storm of 
opposition. Feeling that necessity was laid upon me, that wo would 
be mine if I preached not the gospel, I dared not disobey. Leav- 
ing the wood, I went to a house, where the people were kind. 
They gave me some food, and had a meeting notified in their vi- 
cinity. The next day, I attended three meetings ; and the day fol- 
lowing, walked twenty-five miles to Lyons, where the Benton Quar- 
terly Meeting was to be held the 12th and 13th of May. 

Here I received a letter from my mother. It brought heavy ti- 
dings, and a trial of which I had not thought. My father's house 
was again burned with all its contents. This trying scene happen- 
ed only the Wednesday previous. My parents desired me to re- 
turn and visit them in their affliction, provided I could have per- 
mission from the Lord. Retiring to a field alone, solitude seemed 
written on all below. I thought of the continued series of misfor- 
tunes that had afflicted my dear parents, till all my sympathies 
were awakened. Reading the letter again and again, I laid the 
case before the Lord, when Luke 9:59, " Lord, suffer me first to 
go and bury my father," occurred to my recollection ; and our 



DAVID MARKS. 37 

Lord's answer, " Let the dead bury their dead, but go thou and 
preach the kingdom of God," kept passing through my mind. Fi- 
nally, concluding I could do but little good should I return, and 
believing the Lord still called me to go west, I wrote to my par- 
ents, stating my sympathy for them, and conviction of duty, and 
sent back the dollar that my mother gave me on the morning of 
our separation. 

Monday, leaving for the Holland Purchase, I walked nine miles 
and held two meetings, in which some were awakened, who short- 
ly professed to find Jesus. The two following clays were spent in 
Ontario, where I attended three meetings, and enjoyed peace and 
liberty. Continuing my journey I crossed the Genesee river, and 
in the afternoon of Friday, arrived at Eld. Jonathan N. Hinkley's, 
in Hinckleyville. He had gone to the Bethany Quarterly Meet- 
ing, which was to commence in Attica the next day. I stated that 
I was going to that meeting, and requested something to eat. Sis- 
ter Hinckley inquired whence I came, the object of my journey, 
&c. Being answered, she said within herself, as she afterward 
informed me, ' A likely story, that you, a little boy, have come 
more than a hundred miles on foot to attend a Quarterly Meeting !' 
Thus she concluded, I had only said this to get something to eat, 
which she gave me, and let me go my way. I walked that even- 
ing fifteen miles, to Byron, and about eleven o'clock, called at bro. 
Giknan's, and found all had retired to rest. One arose, however, 
unbolted the door, and gave me admission. After hearing my in- 
troduction, he conducted me to the cupboard, and then to a lodging 
with Elder Hinckley, who tarried in the house that night. This 
was my first interview with him ; and the next morning, though 
a stranger, he pitied my weariness, and insisted that I should ride 
on his beast a part of the way to Attica, which was twenty-one 
miles. 

At one o'clock, P. M., we entered the meeting, and Eld. Hinck- 
ley shortly after arose on the stand, looked around on the assem- 
bly with a piercing eye, and then said: "I was not coming to this 
place. I was going to Clarkson. But the Lord God said to me, 
'Attica — Attica— Attica ;' and I am here, thank God." He then 
sat down. Feeling the cold chills pass over me, I looked around 
and saw tears starting from many eyes. About one minute after, 
he arose again and said : " It was in the north country, in the month 
of April, when the snow was several feet deep on the earth, that 
the Lord God found Jonathan, the atheist, and converted his soul 
—and the leafless trees stretched their arms toward heaven and 
praised God." Again, he took his seat ; but such was the power 
that attended these words, that nearly the whole assembly were in 
tears. The preaching that followed was interesting and refresh- 
4 



33 MEMOIRS OF 

ing. Here I saw several ministers for the first time, some of whom 
treated me affectionately : others, though they used me tenderly, 
gave me to understand, they were doubtful of my being in the path 
of duty, as they feared I had run without being sent. Again I fell 
into a sore trial. For the opinion of preachers having much in- 
fluence with me, I thought it possible that I might have been mis- 
taken respecting duty. The query was presented to me. a How 
can it be, that the Lord has called you to labor in his vineyard, 
when so many good people believe it not ?" Retiring to a vale, I 
walked on the banks of the Tonewanta. and my spirit sunk within 
me : now again I became weary of my life — and had strong temp- 
tations to put a period to it. Could I have felt liberty from the 
Lord to return home, my trial would have ceased ; but this I felt 
forbidden to do. A monitor within strengthened me to resist 
temptation, and continue in the work : for it appeared that I must 
know my duty for myself; and that, as another could not discharge 
it. so another could not decide upon a case, that was wholly be- 
tween God and my own soul. I returned to the Quarterly Meet- 
ing about the time it closed, and spoke to those who would stay to 
hear. 

Monday, I held two meetings, — in one of which, some appeared 
to be deeply convicted of their lost condition. On the day follow- 
ing. I attended three meetings : in one of these, after soliciting those 
who desired religion, to rise — and promising that I would try to 
pray for them, twenty stood up in the assembly ; and several of 
them by sighs and tears, confessed the danger they were in, by liv- 
ing in sin. 

Wednesday, I spoke to an assembly in Bennington. The Spirit 
of the Lord was present, to the joy of saints and the conviction of 
sinners. At eight the next morning, agreeably to appointment, I 
met a congregation in Attica. Six were awakened to view their 
lost condition, and promised to seek the Savior. At evening in the 
same neighborhood, I held a meeting that continued till after three 
o'clock in the morning. The Spirit of God was manifest in a mar- 
vellous manner. Saints rejoiced and shouted aloud for joy — sin- 
ners fell to the floor, wept and cried aloud for mercy. Having nev- 
er witnessed such a scene before, I said, rashly, within myself, 'it 
is confusion;' and this Scripture, "Our God is not the author of 
confusion," came to my recollection ; and in my heart I condemn- 
ed the work, till several of the awakened spoke forth the praises of 
God, before my eyes, and told what the Lord had done for their 
souls. Then, after considering the subject again, and the accounts 
in sacred writ of certain meetings, where the Spirit of the Lord 
was powerfully manifested, (see Ezra 13:12, 13. Acts 2:13 — 37,) 
I could but be convinced it was the work of Israel's God. 



DAVID MARKS. 39 

I labored in Attica and Bennington ten days, and attended 
twelve meetings ; in these, several bowed before the Lord for the 
first time, and called upon his name. Seven professed to be brought 
into the fold of Jesus, and several wanderers were reclaimed. Oh 
how glad was my heart, when the Lord looked upon the afflictions 
of David, and granted him the desire of his soul, in permitting his 
eyes to see the salvation of God. These few souls, which the Lord 
gave me, were dear to my heart, even as children, and appeared 
as seals and witnesses, that He had commissioned me to declare his 
word to the sons of men. I next went to Sheldon, and attended 
several meetings, in one of which, nearly twenty came forward for 
prayers, and two were soon brought to rejoice in the liberty of the 
sons of God. 

Sunday, May 27, 1 attended six meetings ; two in Sheldon, one 
in Bennington, and three in Attica. The congregations were large 
and attentive. No unusual occurrence marked these meetings, yet 
it was believed good was done. The next day I travelled twenty- 
five miles and preached twice. The second meeting was in Attica, 
and continued till two o'clock in the morning. Six happy converts 
were present, and we sat together in a heavenly place in Christ. 
Yea, many could say, 

" My willing soul would stay in such a frame as this, 
And sit, and sing itself away to everlasting bliss." 

Tuesday, after travelling fifteen miles, I attended one meeting,— 
and the day following, preached three times. The Lord was pres- 
ent in the assemblies, and many rejoiced in bright hopes of a happy 
immortality. 

Thursday, I walked twelve miles, and held three meetings ; and 
the next day preached in the north part of Sheldon". The day fol- 
lowing, I went to China, where the Erie Quarterly Meeting was 
in session. Elders Richard M. Carey and Jeremiah Folsom were 
present ; the preaching and other exercises were spiritual and in- 
teresting. 

One circumstance at this meeting greatly affected me. Having 
retired from the assembly a small distance, I heard a very singular 
sound in the barn where they were convened, that excited anxiety 
and alarm. I returned in haste ; and on entering the meeting, 
saw a young man standing before the assembly in a flood of tears ; 
who, by signs and gestures, was attempting to describe the joys of 
heaven, and the horrors of hell. The sound of his voice was inar- 
ticulate, but varied with his signs to express happiness and misery. 
The w T hole assembly was deeply affected ; to . my astonishment, I 
found that this young man, though deaf and dumb, had opened his 
mouth to persuade the wicked from the way to hell. He had late- 



40 MEMOIRS OF 

ly experienced a hope in God, and related his experience by signs ; 
showing his fears of punishment by looking at the fire, and then 
pointing downward; and his views of heaven, by touching things 
that were bright, or of the color of gold, and pointing upward. He 
desired and received baptism, and became a faithful member of the 
church. The exercises of the meeting appeared to interest him, as 
much as any one ; and, though he could neither hear words, nor 
articulate them, yet he had sounds peculiar to exhortation, prayer 
and singing, accompanied by suitable gestures. I understood his 
public exercises had been blessed to the conversion of several. 
This was loud preaching, and many said, " If the Lord hath open- 
ed the mouth of the dumb, it is time for us, who have the use of 
speech, to confess Christ with the mouth unto salvation." 

Sunday, June 4, 1 enjoyed unusual freedom in speaking to an as- 
sembly in Concord. The day following, I went to Boston, Erie 
county, N. Y., and the next morriing, at the hour of six, spoke to a 
crowded congregation, where my soul was led out into the liberty 
of the gospel. Six ministers were present ; the hearts of the peo- 
ple seemed melted by the presence of the God of Sabbaoth ; and it 
was a time that doubtless will be remembered in eternity. I went 
to Nichol's settlement, and in the early part of the evening gave out 
an appointment. The house was soon filled, and we enjoyed a 
solemn waiting before God. Convicting power touched the hearts 
of some, who, before the exercises closed, desired the prayers of 
Christians. In the morning, I held another meeting at the same 
place, and several covenanted to kneel and pray thrice a day, for 
four weeks. The day following, I preached in Zoar ; this was a 
solemn, refreshing season, and at the close a number promised to 
seek the Savior. Saturday, I travelled fifteen miles, and held two 
meetings, in which twenty-five manifested their desire for the " one 
thing needful." One or two of the number soon professed to find 
pardon through the blood of the Lamb. 

Sabbath morning, June 10, after speaking to an assembly in a 
barn, at the hour of seven, I went to Zoar, where a large congre- 
gation was present ; and in declaring the glad tidings of salvation, 
enjoyed much freedom. Here five solemnly covenanted to kneel 
and pray twice a day, for the four weeks ensuing. After preach- 
ing again in Nichol's settlement, I rode ten miles to Boston, and 
found a numerous assembly, who had come o\it to hear the " boy 
preacher," the appellation by which I was generally known. The 
Lord gave me confidence, with a good degree of his Spirit, and it 
was a weeping season. Here our hearts were made glad ; twenty- 
five precious awakened souls came forward, desiring the prayers of 
God's children. Monday, after walking twenty-seven miles, I 
preached once. Near the close of the meeting, I invited those who 



DAVID MARKS. 41 

felt a need of salvation, and desired to obtain it, to come forward 
and bow before the Lord, saying I w r ould pray for them ; five ac- 
cepted the invitation. After visiting and preaching in Sheldon, 
Bennington, and Attica, I held a meeting in Pike, in which I was 
publicly ojDposed by a Universalist, yet there appeared some good 
signs. 

I staid the night with a brother in Christ, whose name was John- 
son. Soon after rising in the morning, the form of my mother sud- 
denly appeared to my view, with a pallid countenance, and clad in 
the habiliments of death. Before I was aware, turning to the fam- 
ily, I said, ' My mother is dead,' and related the impression. For 
some time previous, she had been in my thoughts but little, and the 
idea that it was, or might be so, caused a bitter pang. Though 
fears now troubled me, I hoped they would prove groundless. 

From Pike, I went to Centerville, and attended a meeting, which 
was truly solemn. Some w r ere awakened and desired to be re- 
membered at the throne of grace. Sunday, June 17, I preached 
to four large congregations in Rushford and Centerville. The 
power of Emmanuel was present in each meeting, and sinners 
wept as they viewed themselves in the -gospel glass. The next day 
I spoke the word to a solemn audience in Pike ; and early in the 
following day, at Six Acre lake. In the afternoon I was highly 
favored of the Lord, while pointing precious souls to the Friend of 
sinners, at the east part of the town. 

Wednesday, I preached in China ; the day after, walked thir- 
teen miles in the rain, and attended three meetings. My shoes 
were worn off from my feet; and on reaching the last appoint- 
ment in Boston, Erie Co. I was much wearied; my feet were 
blistered, and so painful, that I was obliged to sit with them on a 
pillow, while speaking to the people. But amidst my privations 
and sufferings for the cause of Christ, my heart felt that more than 
double was rendered, by seeing one sinner this evening persuaded 
to turn and live. 

On Friday, I went to a camp meeting in Boston, and being re- 
quested, preached in the evening, and tarried the next day. On 
the Sabbath, feeling constrained by the love of Christ and a sense 
of duty, though my feet were still bare, I addressed the people 
from the stand, and enjoyed good freedom. At the close of my 
discourse, a man w r ho was not a professor, left nearly two dollars 
in my hand, and told me to purchase a pair of shoes ; but before 
an opportunity presented, a pair was given me. 

On Monday, I preached in Buffham settlement, and in Aurora. 
Li the latter place, a heavenly season was enjoyed ; fifteen awaken- 
ed souls promised to seek the Lord, and two of them were soon 
brought to rejoice. The day following, I held a meeting in Wales ; 
4.* 



42 MEMOIRS OF 

the next day, travelled sixteen miles, and preached twice. In the 
latter meeting, two requested prayers. Thursday, after riding 
twenty miles, I preached once ; and the day following, attended a 
meeting in Pike, but saw none persuaded to turn to God. 

Sunday morning, July 1, 1821, I went to Centerville. Num- 
bers had assembled, and I felt great confidence in declaring the 
counsel of Heaven. This assembly w r as said to be the largest that 
had ever been in the town. In the after part of the day, about 
four hundred met in Rushford, many having come between ten and 
fifteen miles. The Lord enabled me to come to the people in the 
fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Many were smitten 
by the sword of the Spirit ; a revival soon commenced, and, as I 
afterward learned, fifty or sixty professed to find Him, of whom 
Moses in the law and the prophets did write. In the evening, I 
preached again at Centerville. The next day I travelled fifteen 
miles and held two meetings; and the day following preached 
twice in Pike. 

On the 4th of July, Elder Kendall, a Calvinistic Baptist, preach- 
ed at Centerville, and at the conclusion of his discourse, I address- 
ed the audience. Elder Kendall made me a considerable present 
of wearing apparel ; and offered to give SI 00. toward a collegiate 
education, provided I would go to Massachusetts and receive tuition 
from one of his relatives. He also gave encouragement, that the 
whole expense of a support at college should be defrayed. As this 
w r ould prevent me from travelling to declare the glad tidings of sal- 
vation, and thinking my life would be short, I could not accept his 
kind offer. 

Thursday, July 5, I went to a camp meeting in Warsaw, where 
the preachers treated me with coldness. After a stay of one clay, 
having prayed twice on the camp ground, one of the ministers re- 
proved me for taking up too much of the time. Feeling desirous 
to address the people from the stand, I requested the privilege, but 
was denied. During an intermission on Saturday, while convers- 
ing with some individuals, and endeavoring to persuade them to be 
reconciled to God, large numbers crowded to hear, till I had not 
room to turn. Being solicited by some of the brethren, I climbed 
upon a fire stand,* and commenced delivering my message. Near- 
ly the whole assembly gathering around, listened attentively, and 
many with tears. Soon one of the preachers requested me to be 
as brief in my remarks as possible, and free my mind. Feeling 
my duty was then discharged, I ceased speaking, and the next day 
left the meeting. Having now a chain of appointments west of 

* Fire stands are about six feet high, and constructed by placing several stakes in the 
ground, and covering the tops of them first with boards, and then with earth, for the pur- 
pose of building fires on them, to give light in the night at camp meetings. 



DAVID MARKS. 43 

Warsaw, I proceeded thirty-six miles ; and on Monday preached 
in Sheldon and Wales. In the latter place, it was a time of Em- 
manuel's power ; five penitents kneeled, while we called on Him 
who is able and mighty to save. One of the number soon found 
Jesus. On the day after I preached at Aurora, and one who had 
been awakened in one of my former meetings, was brought into the 
liberty of the sons of God. In the after part of the day, I spoke 
to a congregation in Boston ; one sinner was slain, and soon after 
raised by .the great Physician. The day following I preached in 
Hamburg to a numerous concourse, who appeared to hear for the 
judgment day. 

July 11, I observed with solemn prayer, it being the second an- 
niversary of my baptism. The day was pleasant. In the fore- 
_ noon, I attended a meeting in Eden, where the solemnities of the 
eternal world were unveiled, and the arrows of the King sharp in 
the hearts of his enemies. Eleven thus wounded, bowed before 
the Lord ; and while we implored his mercy, their cries and groans 
resounded through the barn in which we were assembled. After 
the meeting closed, as the people seemed very unwilling to leave 
the place, I conversed with several who promised to seek God. 
Addressing a young woman, who belonged to the Quakers, I asked 
her if she desired the religion of the blessed Jesus. She made no 
reply, but immediately started for home. Conviction followed her, 
and her distress of mind became so great, that she returned in 
tears ; and meeting me in company with several anxious souls, as 
we were passing from the barn to the house, she begged forgive- 
ness for leaving me so abruptly, and said, she not only desired the 
knowledge of God, but wished me to entreat his mercy for her. 
After entering the house, we again called on the Lord. From this 
good hour, a revival followed, in which several Quakers professed 
to be born again. 

After attending two other meetings, I went to Buffalo, and 
preached to a numerous congregation in the Methodist chapel. 
Sunday, July 15, I had an appointment in a grove at Hamburg. 
Many, attracted by curiosity, came out to hear " the hoy ;" and it- 
was said the assembly was larger than any that had ever beforebeen 
held in that town. I endeavored to trust in God, but did not see so 
much of his power manifested as my heart would gladly have witness- 
ed. In the evening, the Lord met with us again in Eden, and while 
his glory beamed upon us, Zion's children rejoiced with exceeding 
great joy, and sinners wept aloud. Ten or fifteen awakened souls 
fell on their knees and humbly begged for pardon. The next day, 
I travelled twenty miles and preached twice ; the day following, 
walked fourteen miles to an appointment in Attica; and on 
Thursday, returned to Eden, a distance of thirty-five miles. Here 



44 MEMOIRS OF 

I met a crowded assembly, in which the power of the Highest ren- 
dered the place both awful and glorious. Many went away mourn- 
ing for their transgressions, and sighing for salvation. A confer- 
ence was held in the evening : a large number spoke of the deal- 
ings of the Lord with them, and several declared they would nev- 
er rest till they found peace to their souls. The awakened became 
so distressed, that near the close their cries were heard throughout 
the assembly. Fifteen united in a circle, and bowed with us, while 
we called on the Lord. One or two found peace, and went home 
rejoicing. 

Friday, July 20, while I was preaching in Boston, the Spirit of 
the Lord God descended upon us, and the cries of the wounded 
were heard in every part of the congregation. Fourteen manifest- 
ed their desires for salvation, and their resolutions to seek mercy ; 
and two or three were hopefully converted. 

On Saturday, an attack of the chicken pox brought on me the 
pains of raging disorder. But having appointments, I walked ten 
miles, to Aurora, in much distress of body, frequently lying down 
by the way. The next day, being the Sabbath, Elder H., a Cal- 
vinistic Baptist, and myself, undesignedly had appointments at the 
same hour and place. The assembly was large, and on entering, I 
took a seat as a stranger. Elder H., after stating that he under- 
stood a boy, who had been preaching, in those parts, had an ap- 
pointment at that place, inquired if any one knew where he was. 
On receiving an answer, he asked me if I belonged to any church, 
or had credentials. My letter being presented, he read it to the 
assembly, and gave me liberty to preach. I loved to preach Jesus, 
and improving the opportunity, enjoyed a precious season. In the 
after part of the day, I walked nine miles, and preached twice, but 
passed a restless night ; my illness having considerably increased. 

On Monday morning, the rain was falling, and my strength al- 
most spent ; yet an appointment, eleven miles distant, called me, 
and sinners lay near my heart. After walking in much distress 
four miles, my strength failed ; but borrowing a horse, I reached 
my appointment at Vermont hill, both wet and cold. The house 
was filled, and the people were attentive. Their trickling tears be- 
spoke that they felt the melting influence of God's Holy Spirit. 
After the meeting closed, I began conversing with individuals, and 
asked them if they desired an interest in Christ. Some answered, 
1 they did not at present ;' others that they ' could live without it a 
little longer:' — some said they ' thought religion a good thing;' 
and others, they ' would like it well enough.' I asked different 
questions, relative to the state of their minds ; but notwithstanding 
their tears and trembling, they answered evasively, — and no one 
owning a desire for salvation, I went to Elder Folsom's, sorrowing 



DAVID MARKS. 45 

and astonished at the obstinacy of sinful man. But as soon as the 
evening came, six or seven, with whom I had conversed, came to 
the house and desired me to pray for them. Next morning, I was 
informed that two or three of this number had been in such distress 
of mind, while they saw the sinfulness of their lives, that they neith- 
er closed their eyes to sleep, nor lay down during the night. At 
dawn of day, they returned to my lodging, and others continued to 
come, till an hour after sunrising, when the number was increased 
to fifteen. I prayed and conversed with them — then bidding them 
adieu, went to my appointment in Boston. Here the heavens 
seemed to be opened, 'and the glory of God to fill the house. Pro- 
fessors were revived, wanderers reclaimed, and our meeting was 
crowned with the praises of two or three new-born souls. The 
four days following I labored in Eden and Boston. 

During four weeks that had now passed, the power of God was 
frequently manifested in our meetings in these towns. While the 
saints were made to sing and shout for joy, the cries of awakened 
sinners, begging for mercy, often saluted our ears. Eighteen had 
professed to find pardon through the blood of the Lamb. Among 
this number, was one in advanced life, who for eight years had at- 
tended but one or two religious meetings. His curiosity being ex- 
cited by the report, that ' a boy of the age of fifteen, was preach- 
ing among the people,' he came out to hear, looking with a scrutin- 
izing eye at the youth, when, as he afterwards stated, the following 
inquiries were suggested to his mind : < If that lad is engaged in the 
cause of religion, and so earnestly desires the welfare of men, as to 
leave his father's house at this tender age, and go among strangers, 
far away from home, to persuade men to be reconciled to God ; 
what should I, an old man, be about ? I am living in sin in the 
very evening of life, while he is serving God in childhood.' Con- 
viction reached his heart, and never left him, till he was hopefully 
converted. 

July 29, after taking leave of the brethren in Boston and Eden, 
I preached in Concord and China, and next day visited Center- 
ville, little realizing the deep sorrows that awaited me. Being told 
a letter in the Post Office waited my arrival, the recollection of my 
impression six weeks before at brother Johnson's, in Pike, caused 
me to tremble, and remark that I believed my mother was no 
more. 

With an agitated step, I hastened to the office. The letter was 
presented, and a black seal confirmed my fears. I paused to pre- 
pare for heavy tidings ; then opened the letter, and saw the name 
subscribed was my father's. After naming the reception of my 
last letter, he wrote thus : " You write, " Dear father and mother ;" 
but, my son, it has become my painful duty . to inform you, that 



46 MEMOIRS OF 

your mother is no more with us. A sudden attack of the quick 
consumption confined her on the 16th of May, 1821, and she de- 
parted this life on the 29th of the same month." That which I 
had feared, now came upon me. I could read no further — the ten- 
der ties were rent asunder. I retired, that my heart might bleed 
its anguish. When the first impulse of grief had a little subsided, 
I read my letter, and with subsequent information, gathered the 
following particulars. 

My parents, after the burning of their dwelling, prepared a 
neighboring cottage for their abode, into which they gathered a 
few things, till a house my father had purchased, should be remov- 
ed to the place they had selected. Shortly after, my mother, hav- 
ing no candles, seated herself in the door of the cottage one even- 
ing, to repair garments for the family by moon-light. The next 
morning she found she had taken cold, and said to my father, " I 
am ill, and I shall die. Our cottage is uncomfortable, and I will 
go to one of the neighbor's and there end my days." But he, sup- 
posing their late affliction had cast a gloom over her mind, and that 
ill health had discouraged her, hoped she would soon recover, and 
be restored to her usual' cheerfulness. She went to the house of 
Mr. W., apparently without serious symptoms of a course of sick- 
ness ; and said, " I am not well, and have come to your house 
to be sick and die." Mr. W., surprised at the remark, kindly re- 
plied, " You are welcome to my house ; but I trust you mistake 
in expecting death." The same day she took her bed, and seem- 
ingly closed her eyes upon the world. Though not yet attacked vi- 
olently, she said she should no more arise. My father proposed to 
call a physician. She replied, " It will do no good ; but if it will 
afford you any satisfaction I am willing." Mr. M., a skillful phy- 
sician, attended, and at first did not consider her case alarming ; 
but soon her destiny appeared to be unalterably fixed. 

My brother Friend, while sitting by her, said, " I cannot bear 
the thought that you should now die and leave us." She calmly 
replied, " My son, nearly forty-five years have I spent in this world 
of tribulation. We commenced in comfortable circumstances, with 
fair prospects of the future ; but once have been stripped of all, — 
twice our dwelling has been consumed. Life has been a continued 
series of disappointments, and now I am nearly through all my sor- 
rows. The Lord is about to take me to himself, — and O, my child, 
how can you wish me to stay here any longer." My brother, 
bursting into tears, could say no more, but retired in secret to vent 
his grief. Rosanna, an only daughter, of the age of seven, and the 
youngest, a son of five years, having heard her say she. should die, 
went several times each to her bed, weeping and saying, " Mamma, 
I don't want you should die." Always, before this, when confined 



DAVID MARKS. 47 

by sickness, or expecting the approach of death, she had expressed 
much affection for her children, and concern for their welfare ; but 
now, it seemed that a view of death, and discovery of eternity, had 
banished anxiety and absorbed natural affection. . Though she had 
always been a tender mother, now the only reply to her innocent 
babes was, " Go away." Being frequently asked if she did not 
wish to see David, her repeated answer was, " No" Once, in re- 
ply to the same question, she said, " You may think it strange that 
I say no ; but it is because he is engaged in the cause of Christ, 
which I do not wish him to leave to visit me. I am going home ; 
he will soon finish his work and follow me." 

On the morning of the 28th of May, her physician, after giving 
some directions concerning her medicine, said he must leave, but 
would call again the next day. She replied, " You need not come ; 
for it will be useless ; if you come to-morrow, you will find me a 
corpse." At one o'clock, P. M., she became speechless, and the 
pains of death began. Several times, my father desired her to 
press his hand, if she felt confident of her acceptance with God. 
This she continued to do as often as requested, until her strength so 
failed, that she could only stretch her hand a little. Her distress 
was very great; but at the hour of four, the next morning, her 
Savior called — she left her pain and anguish — and exchanged this 
world of sorrow, this vale of tears, I trust, for a world of glory 
and immortal bliss. 

Another little circumstance touched my heart. The dollar that 
I sent back after the house was burned, was used toward purchas- 
ing her grave apparel. O, how distant was the thought, when I 
received that dollar from my mother, and returned it, that this 
would be its application ! 



48 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER V. 

Particulars of my labors, and other occurrences, from July, 1821, 
to November following. 

Elder Kendall kindly gave me the use of a horse to visit our be- 
reaved family. On the morning of August 2, 1821, I proceeded 
on the journey, which was 130 miles; and on the evening of the 
fourth, arrived at my father's dwelling. But, how gloomy! All 
that met my sight was marked with change. The house I left was 
gone, and another erected on ot^er ground. The mantle of night 
had cast its shade around. I knocked at the door, but all was 
silent as the house of death. Receiving no answer, I entered, and 
found my younger brother sleeping by the fire. Upon awaking 
him, he burst into tears, and exclaimed, " O, David! is this you? 
mamma is dead !" After informing me that my father and eldest 
brother had gone a few miles from home, he conducted me to the 
chamber, where the two youngest children were in bed. Awaking 
from sleep, Rosanna threw her arms around my neck, and with 
much grief cried, " Mamma is dead." Jeremiah also told me the 
same, as though the tidings were new. This was a heart-touching 
scene. Soon my father and brother returned; but O, how empty 
and solitary the house appeared ! Death seemed engraven on the 
walls, and on all things around. Together we bowed before the 
Lord, when a remembrance of the solemn scene on the morning of 
our separation, caused my heart a bitter pang. Our number was 
less than at that time, — that voice, which then so fervently implor- 
ed the mercies of Heaven at the family altar, we heard not. Alas ! 
it was silent and mute in death. Memory, faithful to its office, 
brought to mind the excellent counsel and emphatical warnings my 
dear mother had given me, accompanied by the painful assurance 
that they could never again be repeated. The next morning was 
the Sabbath. I arose early, and viewed in solemn silence the sur- 
rounding scenery. The ruins of the old house brought the recol- 
: lection of departed years ; but another spot met my eye. It was 
where I last beheld the form of my departed mother. O, how 
dreary and desolate all creation appeared ! With bitterness I said, 
" All below is vanity." 

We repaired to the house of worship. The empty seat in the 
carriage, and the vacant place in the house of God, told us, in si- 
lent language, that death had bereaved us ; and pointed to the 
dark confines of the tomb. After the morning service, in company 
with my father and family, I walked to the " congregation of the 
dead ;" there I gazed on the mound, beneath which rested the 



DAVID 3IARKS. 49 

body of rny mother, and watered it with rny tears. But rny heart 
was not without consolation ; I rejoiced in the midst of sorrow ; for 
I thought, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord." Here she 
rests in peace. Xo more the toils of life, the afflictions and woes 
of this land of pain and death, assail her. She rests in the bosom 
of that Savior, who on earth was so dear to her, and whose cause 
was so precious to her heart. Though I deeply felt and mourned 
my loss. yet. while I knew it was her eternal gain, for her I could 
rejoice. In a little time I shall finish my work and follow her. 
After wandering a little longer in the earth, warning sinners and 
weeping over them, I shall rest from my labors, and rejoin her to 
sing praises to God and the Lamb for ever. Bidding adieu to her 
peaceful grave, I endeavored in the afternoon, with feelings of 
great solemnity, to point shiners to the Savior. 

After a stay of four days hi Junius, duty called for my depart- 
ure. Bidding my father and brothers farewell, on the 9th of Au- 
gust, they went to their labor, and my little sister sat alone in the 
house. Just as I was ready to leave, she burst into tears and said, 
a O David, don't leave me. It is very lonesome here since mamma 
died." It seemed as though my heart would break. I tried to 
console her, and quiet her grief, telling her, it was for poor sinners 
that I left her ; they were going down to death, and the Lord had 
made it my duty to warn them. This was a trying hour: — but, 
committing her to the care of Heaven, I proceeded to Wayne, 
where the Benton Quarterly Meeting was to be held, on the 11th 
and 12th of the month. The meeting was highly favored from the 
presence of the Lord. Four were hopefully converted — wander- 
ers confessed their backshdhigs — and several went to their homes 
inquiring the way to Zion. 

Monday, after riding forty miles to Bristol, to attend an appoint- 
ment previously left with a landlady for circulation, I found she 
had not given it notice. She said she believed me an impostor, 
and had not expected my return. But, notwithstanding I had re- 
turned according to agreement, she was then unwilling I should 
preach in her house. Being destitute of money, much fatigued, 
and faint with hunger, having ate nothing during the day's jour- 
ney, I requested some food, but it was refused ! then asking some- 
thing for my horse, this also was refused. So leaving her, I rode 
about two miles, made application for a lodging, which was grant- 
ed, and my necessities kindly relieved. The next day I rode thir- 
ty miles to an appointment in Perry ; and the day following to 
Centerville, returned the horse I had borrowed, and in the evening 
attended a meeting. Thursday and Friday I walked 36 miles to 
Bethany, and preached once by the way. 
5 



50 MEMOIRS OP 

On Friday, Aug. 17, 1821, I had the satisfaction of being pres- 
ent at the organization of the Holland Purchase Yearly Meeting. 
Three Quarterly Meetings, viz : Bethany, Erie, and Benton, unit- 
ed by delegation ; and the following particulars concerning their 
rise and numbers at that period, were presented: 

Bethany Quarterly Meeting was the first of the Freewill Bap- 
tist denomination, organized in the state of New York. It was 
gathered in 1813, through the instrumentality of Elder Nathaniel 
Brown, a faithful minister of Christ, who left his brethren in Straf- 
ford, Vermont, about the year 1810. At this time, it consisted of 
thirteen churches, which numbered five hundred and forty-eight 
members, nine elders, and six unordained preachers. 

Erie Quarterly Meeting was organized from the Bethany Quar- 
terly Meeting, about the year 1818. It now had eight churches — 
which consisted of three elders, four unordained preachers, and one 
hundred and ninety-eight members. 

Benton Quarterly Meeting was gathered by Elder Zebulon 
Dean, about the year 1818. At this time it consisted of six church- 
es, containing one hundred and twenty-two members, five elders, 
and three unordained preachers. 

Total number in the Yearly Meeting, seventeen elders, thirteen 
unordained preachers, and eight hundred and sixty-eight members. 

On Saturday, a good season was enjoyed. On the Sabbath, a 
numerous assembly was present. Five sermons were delivered, 
which were very instructive and refreshing. On an evening of 
this meeting, I attended worship where several preachers were 
present, and gave an exhortation; but being a stranger, the peo- 
ple, as they dispersed, left me alone in the school-house, which some 
one locked. My Master declared at one time, that he " had not 
where to lay his head ;" when I thought of my comfortable shelter, 
my mind was composed, and placing two or three benches together, 
I laid myself on them and fell into a sweet slumber. In the mean- 
time, a person who was not a professor, after he had gone a mile 
toward home, knowing I was locked in the house, felt uneasy, and 
obtaining the key, returned and awoke me, and would have me go 
to his house. 

From Bethany, I went to Wales and Boston, and preached in 
each town ; then returning home, attended two meetings by the 
way. I spent about three weeks in Junius, held fifteen meetings, 
and met with considerable opposition. My trials were great ; but 
the words of Christ, Matt. 13:57, " A prophet is not without honor, 
save in his own country," encouraged me to walk in the path of 
obedience, — believing that if God had called me to preach his 
word, he would uphold me in the day of trouble ; and that amid all 
the changes of life, his grace would be sufficient for those who put 



DAVID MARKS. 51 

their trust in him. One man gave notice that he would provide a 
handful of whips at my next meeting, and would give a gallon of 
whiskey to any one that would wear them out on me. Sickness 
immediately confined him, so that at my next meeting, he was un- 
able to attend. One of his children was taken ill about the same 
time, and died in a few days. How great is the care God has of 
his children ! — Not a hair shall fall to the ground without his no- 
tice. I understood that, at another time, some of the planks were 
removed from a bridge, over which I was expected to pass in the 
evening. The " Guide of my youth" turned my feet another way, 
and thus preserved me from the snare of my enemies. A member 
of the church told me, my foes were intending to lie in wait when 
I went away, and take my life. O that God may not lay these 
sins to their charge ; but in mercy may He give them to see the 
folly of their ways. 

About this time, I felt considerable desire to acquire a knowl- 
edge of English Grammar ; but as my views of duty would not per- 
mit me to leave the work to which God had appointed me, to at- 
tend a school, I reasoned with myself thus : If men have had suffi- 
cient genius to form and arrange the rules of language, and the ex- 
perience and learning of ages have presented them in a style, plain 
and familiar, cannot a knowledge of this science be obtained with- 
out going to school ? The continued dropping of water will wear 
even a stone ; by resolution and perseverance, any thing within the 
sphere of man may be accomplished. As a knowledge of gram- 
mar might greatly extend my usefulness, I concluded that, if life 
continue, I can and will obtain this knowledge. Yet I had no book, 
neither money to purchase one. But, as one day's labor on the 
Erie canal, that was near, would furnish me with the money, I 
went to a marsh west of Montezuma, and engaged in pumping 
water. Soon one of the laborers accosted me thus : " What ! you at 
work on the canal ? I thought you spent your whole time in preach- 
ing." Telling him the occasion of my being thus engaged, he 
seemed touched, and gave me a shilling ; then called on his com- 
rades to show a like favor. They soon gave me money enough 
for my desired object, and dismissed me, requesting that I should 
preach to the workmen the ensuing evening. Accordingly I com- 
plied, and enjoyed the presence of God. I understood that some 
of the wicked laborers had designed to whip me, and that others, 
learning this, had determined to defend me by force. This, how- 
ever, they had no occasion to do, for the Lord protected me, and I 
was permitted to return to Junius in peace. 

Having now obtained a book, I commenced the study of gram- 
mar ; and occasionally received some instruction from friends that 
I met with in my subsequent travels. I studied while travelling on 



52 MEMOIRS OF 

the road, for hundreds of miles, and at length measurably succeed- 
ed in my desired object. 

During my stay in Junius, I was called to witness a solemn 
scene. A neighbor, who resided near, had stated that, soon after 
the burial of my mother, a noise was heard hi the burying ground 
like the opening of a grave. The mound also over her had sunk 
much below the surface of the surrounding earth. From these cir- 
cumstances, we feared that her body had been taken away, and 
concluded to open her grave. Our family and a few others were 
present on the occasion. After prayer, our friends proceeded to 
open the silent mansion — and with a trembling heart, I waited the 
solemn sight. If the coffin should be empty, this must give us un- 
pleasant feelings ; and if, on the other hand, the remains of the ten- 
der parent should be found, I knew this would be a sight from 
which my feelings must shrink with horror. The lid was raised, 
and a human form appeared. At first I could hardly believe it 
was that of my mother. But reflection convinced me that these 
were the remains of that tender mother, whom I left in health only 
the spring before. But 0, the change ! The coffin was half full 
of dark water, that appeared once to have entirely covered the 
body. The face had the color of dark earth ; the flesh had fallen 
away from the cheeks, leaving the teeth bare ; and her eyes had 
sunk deep in their sockets. Her arms had sunk in the body, till 
they were nearly level with its surface. While gazing on these 
remains, I exclaimed within myself, O my God ! is this my moth- 
er ! Are those the arms that embraced me in infancy ! — those the 
eyes that wept over me ! — is that the bosom to which, in childhood, 
I was tenderly pressed ! As an unpleasant aflluvia compelled me 
to turn away, I said of the dust, ' Thou art my mother/ And the 
thought rushed upon me with great solemnity, ' this is a looking- 
glass for me. Thus it will soon be with me, and with all the liv- 
ing. But her spirit is not here ; it has fled beyond the limits of 
mortality/ The coffin being again closed, and the grave filled up, 
we retired from the instructive scene, while solemn reflections of the 
resurrection gave me great consolation. 

September 19, my father kindly purchased me a horse, and al- 
lowed me six months to make the payment. The next morning, I 
left home for Manlius, and rode twenty miles without a saddle, 
then left my horse in Elbridge, and the day following walked twen- 
six miles and held one meeting, in which sinners wept and saints 
rejoiced. One mourning soul cried to God, and soon after found 
peace in Jesus. 

Sunday, 23. A large number assembled at the place of my ap- 
pointment. The Lord gave me boldness to speak in his name, and 
his Spirit attended the word. Many who came, expecting the 



DAVID MARKS. 53 

" hoy" like Sampson, would only make sport for them, wept pro- 
fusely. In the afternoon, I preached at Manlius four corners, to 
several hundred. The Master of assemblies presided and Zion re- 
joiced. Sinners were pricked in the heart ; — and inviting those 
who were desirous of salvation, to manifest it by rising, my heart 
leaped with joy, to behold thirty rise in the assembly. Several of 
them wept bitterly, and eight or nine never rested till Jesus ap- 
peared to them the chiefest among ten thousand, and the one alto- 
gether lovely. Three dollars were given me in this place, for 
which I thanked God. Monday, I walked twenty-eight miles, and 
preached in Gettysburg and Elbridge. 

After this, I went to Lysander, Oswego, and Scriba. I attend- 
ed meetings in each place ; in the latter some appeared sensible of 
their danger, and promised to seek the Lord. Sunday, September 
30, 1 rode ten miles, and preached at the Oswego falls, from the 
word ' Fire / and, indeed, felt the word shut up like fire in my 
bones. The next day I spoke to an attentive audience in Camil- 
lus, and the day following returned to Junius. 

My father's dwelling was more lonely than ever, my sister and 
youngest brother having been committed to the care of strangers, 
thirty miles from home. With me, Junius had lost much of its 
power to delight. The ties which had made it dear to my heart, 
were nearly all rent asunder. The places where I had formerly 
enjoyed the society of my relatives, were now empty, and called 
up bitter recollections. 

After a short stay in Junius, and holding a few meetings, I again 
visited the Holland Purchase, and enjoyed some favored seasons, 
while pointing sinners to the Savior. During my visit, I attended 
the Erie Quarterly Meeting in the town of Holland, on the third 
and fourth of November, 1821. The sermons were interesting, 
and some good degree of the Spirit was present. 

After visiting and preaching in Boston, I returned to Junius, 
and arrived at my father's on the 13th of November. 
5* 



54 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER VI. 

My Journey to New Hampshire. 

From a constant perusal of the Religions Informer, a periodi- 
cal published by one of our preachers in New Hampshire, I be- 
came much attached to many in New England. An anxiety for 
months had been increasing in my mind to see these brethren, 
many of whom had been long in the holy war, and had borne the 
burden and- heat of the day. I wished to become acquainted with 
their spirit and manners, and learn instruction from them. Believ- 
ing such an opportunity would be useful to me, and having made 
it a subject of prayer, I now thought duty called me to visit the 
brethren in that section. 

Accordingly, after a stay of an hour and a half at my father's, 
on Tuesday, the 13th of November, I commenced the journey. My 
temporal prospects were discouraging. I had a young horse, no 
saddle, great coat, or money ; and was going among strangers, a 
distance of more than four hundred miles. But being bound in 
spirit to go thither, I believed the Lord would provide for me. At 
evening, I attended a meeting on the island west of Montezuma. 
The next day I crossed the toll bridge at Montezuma, promising to 
pay the tax on my return. At Brutus, I held a meeting, and there 
met Moses Manrow, who desired to accompany me to New Hamp- 
shire. He also was destitute of money. 

Thursday, we attended my appointment in Elbridge. The next 
morning we came to a turnpike gate in Camillus, and after telling 
the gate keeper my situation and business, I requested a free pas- 
sage. Being denied, I offered my hat, coat, or shoes, for security. 
He replied, he wanted the money ; but after detaining me half an 
hour, let me pass, with a charge never to come to that gate again 
with a horse and no money. Proceeding ten miles, I preached a 
little east of Nine Mile Point, at 9 o'clock, A. M. The assembly 
heard attentively, and seemed not entirely indifferent to " life's on- 
ly great concern." At 3 o'clock, P. M., I spoke to a congregation 
in Gettysburg, and in the evening to one in Syracuse. 

Sunday, November 18, I spoke to two assemblies in Manlius, in 
which the benign influence of the Holy Spirit was felt. On the next 
day, at a meeting in Orville, some appeared to feel the need of sal- 
vation. In the evening, I preached at Manlius Square, to a very 
attentive audience, and the day following, to an assembly in Pom- 
pey, where a few shillings were given to enable me to pass the 
gates. The ensuing evening we met a congregation in the south 
part of the town ; and on the clay after proceeded fifteen miles, and 



David marks. 55 

spent the evening in a Methodist prayer meeting. The next morn- 
ing at 7 o'clock, I preached in Christian Hollow. Here I met with 
unexpected embarrassment ; for, by some means, I had lost the 
record of my appointments in a strange land. The most I knew of 
them was, they were in a southern direction. After proceeding 
twenty miles, I found that I had missed two ; and then obtained in- 
formation of four others. 

Friday, we came to a grave yard, where the congregation was 
attending to the burial of a young woman, who only the Tuesday 
previous was in the bloom of health. She remarked, while stand- 
ing before the glass, dressing her hair, she intended to go to school 
the whole whiter. In a few minutes she felt the attacks of disor- 
der, and in thirty-six hours bid the world adieu. During this short 
illness, she bitterly lamented the misimprovement of her time. Two 
weeks previous she attended a gay party, and joined in the dance ; 
but now, when death was summoning her to appear before her 
Judge, with grief she said, " 0, that I had spent that time praying 
to God !" She then called her parents to pray for her. This they 
had often done, and also counselled her to prepare for the solemn 
change ; but her ears had been deaf to all their entreaties, — for 
she thought that as she was in the morning of life, she had time 
enough yet to attend to religion. Now she regretted her refusal of 
the friendly counsel, and said, " that all young people were pre- 
sent, that I might warn them not to do as I have done ! O, tell 
them from me, when I am dead, not to live in sin as I have." Just 
before her eyes closed in death she exclaimed, ••' I am going to re- 
ceive my everlasting fate !" I am going to dwell with devils \" 
After her burial the people retired to a house — and as their ex- 
pected preacher had not arrived, being requested, I addressed them 
a few minutes, concerning the mortality of man, and the necessity 
of being prepared for the awful change of death. After praying 
with them, we proceeded to my appointment in Truxton. The 
next day I preached thrice ; a friend gave me a great coat, which, 
though considerably worn, was gladly received. 

Sunday, Nov. 25, I attended worship in Truxton, where two or 
three were awakened, and kneeled for prayer. A revival follow- 
ed, in which several were added to the Lord. Leaving Truxton, 
I preached in De Ruyter village, and the next day proceeded twen- 
ty miles to Murray and Lebanon, and there held four meetings. 
Going next to Plainfield, I enjoyed the privilege of speaking to a 
congregation, composed chiefly of young converts. The children 
of God had been gladdened by a glorious revival in the towns of 
Plainfield and TVinfield, in which many had learned the song of 
Zion. Saturday I enjoyed a refreshing season with the " Seventh 
day" Christians. Here an invitation was given me to preach in 



56 MEMOIRS OF 

Brookfield. As it was eight miles from my intended course, I at 
first declined ; but being much importuned, I finally sent an ap- 
pointment for the next Tuesday. Sabbath, Dec. 2, I preached in 
the Free Communion Baptist meeting house ; in the evening, on 
the Cherry Valley turnpike, and the next day at a school house. 

Tuesday, I addressed a considerable number of people in Brook- 
field, from Gen. 3:19, " Dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou re- 
turn." Many, touched by the power of God, wept, and five sin-sick 
souls bowed at mercy's altar. Feeling an impression of duty, I 
made a second appointment at the York school house. Several 
hundred attended : the Lord led my soul out into the deep waters, 
and by his Spirit, fastened conviction in many hearts. A good pros- 
pect of revival in Brookfield now appeared, and I was in doubt 
whether it were duty to stay or to proceed on my journey. But, 
remembering a promise I made, after leaving the revival in Boston 
and Eden, which stopped soon after, that if the Lord would make 
me instrumental of one more revival, I would not leave it till sen- 
sible it was his will, I concluded to tarry a little season ; and I re- 
quested my heavenly Father, if it was my duty to stay, and if my 
eyes should there see his salvation, that, for a witness of it, he would 
convert" two souls before the close of that week. Dec. 9, one was 
converted, and testified what God had done for his soul ; and be- 
fore the week closed, another was brought into the fold of Jesus. 
This desired witness satisfying me as to duty, I continued my la- 
bors. On Dec. 12, one more was converted, and the number of the 
anxious increased. 

But now the enemy of all righteousness, seeing his kingdom in- 
vaded, and his servants deserting his standard, rallied his forces. 
Li their opposition they used for weapons, ignorance, prejudice, 
bigotry, superstition, and falsehood. Scandalous reports were 
circulated, both concerning myself and the subjects of the revival. 
But the Captain of our salvation fought for his people, and suffer- 
ed not his work to be hindered. In our meeting on the 19th of 
the month, several ridiculed religion, yet the season was solemn to 
many, and some cried for mercy. One young man, who was 
thoughtless and disorderly in the early part of the meeting, was cut 
to the heart, while witnessing the tears of Christians, whose pray- 
ers were raised to God in his behalf. When conviction, which he 
then called " a singular feeling" sunk mto his heart, immediately 
he left the house for home — returned — set out again — returned 
again — and coming to me, desired my prayers for his poor soul. I 
bowed with him and supplicated Heaven's mercy. He appeared 
to be a very humble penitent, cried fervently to God for pardon, 
and soon after was happy in the Savior's love. 






DAVID MARKS. 57 

On the evening of Dec. 23, we enjoyed a heavenly season in the 
courts of our God. I delivered a discourse to several hundreds, 
and afterward a large number spoke of the goodness of God : oth- 
ers anxiously desired salvation, and prayed for a pardon of their 
sins. Before the close of the meeting, which was at two in the 
morning, seven, who thus wept and mourned, were brought to re- 
joice and give glory to God. 

January 1, 1822. About fifteen had professed faith in Christ. 
I had now been travelling one year to preach the gospel. A min- 
gled cup of joy and sorrow had been my portion. My greatest sor- 
row had been, to see poor sinners slight the Savior, and by their 
mad rejection, prepare themselves for eternal wo and wretched- 
ness. I had enjoyed peace of mind, in warning and weeping over 
them ; and feeling encouraged by the success God had given my 
labors, I determined to spend my life on the walls of Zion. 

The work of God continuing, I generally held from seven to ten 
meetings in a week. At the York school house, there were usually 
from three to five, and sometimes seven hundred people. Once, 
after preaching a full atonement and free salvation, I was opposed 
by a Calvinistic preacher. But we afterward enjoyed heavenly re- 
freshing, and the converts, in a very affecting manner, frequently 
spoke of the goodness of the Lord. In an evening meeting, sixty 
spoke of the goodness of God after sermon, and declared that they 
were resolved, through grace, to persevere in obedience to the com- 
mands of the dear Redeemer. Many of their testimonies were in 
the Spirit, and in quick succession. But in the latter part of Jan- 
uary, this happy state of things seemed a little changed. Certain 
professed ministers of the Prince of peace came into the vicinity of 
the revival, and preached their doctrines. A party spirit followed, 
and hindered the work. From a conviction of duty, I withdrew 
my appointments from the York school house, and went into the 
north and north-east parts of the town. Here sinners began to cry 
for mercy, and the revival spread. Jan. 18, at a meeting in Gor- 
don's settlement, five or six arose aiad said, that within a week past 
they had found Jesus. 

Jan. 19. Having labored under much trial on account of a tri- 
fling spirit, which frequently influenced my conversation and de- 
portment, I resolved to fast and continue in prayer, hoping to ob- 
tain victory over this sinful propensity. With this resolution I 
went to Eaton, where Elder J. Shaw, a preacher of the Six Prin- 
ciple Baptists, had solicited an appointment, hoping the warnings of 
a youth of sixteen might touch the hearts of his children, for none 
of them had yet been converted. I held two meetings in that town, 
and felt much of the solemn power of God. The spirit of truth at- 
tended the word to the hearts of the people. A few were awaken- 



58 MEMOIRS OF 

ed, who covenanted to seek the Lord, and were soon happy in the 
smiles of the Savior. Their testimonies were blessed to the 
awakening of others, and this good work continued, till about fifty 
or sixty were brought into the fold of Christ. Among these, ac- 
cording to the hope of Elder Shaw, I think, were two or three of 
his children.* Leaving Eaton the same day, I held a meeting at 
the Baptist Seminary in Hamilton. On the next evening, I preach- 
ed in Brookfield, and then, having fasted fifty-five hours, and feel- 
ing much blessed and strengthened of the Lord, I received food. 
After this I held several meetings, in which the power of God was 
manifested. 

Six weeks had now passed since I first came to Brookfield, — in 
this time thirty-five or forty professed to be born again. I also 
preached frequently in other places, particularly in Plainfield, and 
at times felt much of the presence and Spirit of God. In this town, 
also, a few were converted, and a number of wanderers returned 
to the fold of Christ. 

At the close of a meeting I spoke to a young woman of the im- 
portance of being prepared to meet God, but she treated the sol- 
emn subject of which I spoke, with a degree of contempt that I nev- 
er before saw equalled by one of her age and sex. Solemn im- 
pressions concerning her situation, filled my mind with awful 
weight; and I said to her, I greatly fear, if you do not repent, God 
will take you from time in less than a year. In about eight months 
from this, as she was spinning at her wheel, near mid-day, appar- 
ently in health, the hand of distress was laid upon her. She left 
her wheel — retired to the bed — and in -fifteen minutes was a corpse ! 
Thus was she snatched away without an hour's warning. O, how 
sudden ! how shocking to her parents and relatives ! To them, as 
well as to her, what a change of scene is presented — and how quick 
the transition ! The daughter, whom a few moments before they 
saw in health, now lies cold in death. The wheel at which she was 
busied is still in its place, unmoved — and the roll that was in her 
hand, still hangs from the spindle. Ye gay — ye thoughtless ! — ■ 
from this take warning, and dare not to trifle with your God ! 

M. Manrow was with me in Brookfield most of the time, and 
generally took part in the meetings, though sometimes he made 
separate appointments. His labors seemed to be useful ; but, with 
pain, I discovered that he was unstable, and trifling in his conver- 
sation. He received my reproofs kindly, and often with tears. 

* An individual who resided in Eaton recently told me, that at the commencement of 
the first meeting the "boy preacher" held in Eaton, he arose and said to the people, 
there were three words he wished them to remember. These were "death, judgment 
and eternity." Such was the solemnity of his manner, that the effect on the assembly 
was like an electric shock. Many were in tears, and afterwards several of the converts 
dated their awakening from this circumstance. [Editress.] 






DAVID MARKS. 59 

Viewing his soul and his gifts precious, I felt to treat him tenderly, 
hoping he would overcome the follies of his youth. But as he was 
more ready to hear reproof than to reform, I sometimes regretted 
that he had obtained my consent to -travel with me. 

An old sleigh and two or three dollars were given us in Brook- 
field. In the latter part of January, taking leave of the converts, 
we proceeded to Hardwick : there we held several meetings in the 
Christian meeting house, and one in the Universalist. In the lat- 
ter was a large and attentive assembly; some were very solemn, 
others opposed, and afterwards, as I was informed, threatened to 
beat me. After holding several other meetings in Hardwick, and 
enjoying good seasons, we attended a meeting in Canajoharrie. 
Eight came forward for prayer. One promised to kneel and pray 
thrice a day for five weeks, who, together with several others, was 
soon converted. Here I discovered my horse was sick ; but not 
having money to get him kept in the place, we proceeded slowly 
twelve miles to Charlestown, and held one meeting. Then, leav- 
ing my horse in the care of a good man, we pursued our journey 
on foot. 

February 1, we walked to Rotterdam, and the next day attend- 
ed meeting with the Methodists in Schenectady. We went home 
with the preacher, and I desired to leave an appointment at his 
chapel, to attend on my return. After examining my credentials, 
and consulting some of his society, he told me they had concluded, 
as I was a boy, and could not injure the house, to grant me the 
privilege. Proceeding eastward, we crossed the Hudson, passed 
through Troy, and arrived at Brunswick in the early part of the 
evening. Being requested to hold a meeting, immediate notice 
was given, and about thirty collected, to whom I spoke with free- 
dom. 

In the morning we pursued our way, but my mind was in great 
trial, from the singular and irreligious deportment of the youth who 
accompanied me. His levity seemed daily to increase, and I now 
despaired of any reform, for reproof was in vain. I wept, not only 
for his soul, but for my own misfortune, in having fallen into com- 
pany that was worse than useless. After consideration, I told him 
my grievances, and my wish to separate. This he refused, saying, 
" I can travel as fast, or as slow as you can, and I will go with you 
to Andover, N. H. It will be useless for you to contend with me, 
as this will only close the hearts of strangers." I attempted to sep- 
arate from him, but he prevailed. So, being a stranger, and with- 
out friends, I had to submit to his will, painful as it was, and pa- 
tiently bear with him, till the way should open for my deliverance. 
We tarried the ensuing night in Bennington, Vt. — the next day, 



60 MEMOIRS OF 

crossing the green mountains, we waded through a deep snow to 
Wilmington. 

In the morning, after paying our last money for the night's lodg- 
ing and a few crackers, we went to Brattleboro', where was a toll 
bridge across the Connecticut river. After telling the toll receiv- 
er our situation, I requested a free passage. He inquired if we 
had money, and received answer that we had not. He then asked 
me of my business. I replied, I am trying to preach the gospel. 
" What ! you preach ?" said he. " Who sent you ?" " The Lord, 
I trust." " What !" he rejoined, " the Lord send you without 
money ! I think then He is a poor paymaster." I answered, " He 
sent his apostles without purse or scrip ; and in like manner I think 
He has sent me." He then inquired, " Have you any friends in 
the place from which you came?" "I believe I have," was my 
reply. He then remarked, "I doubt whether you have any 
friends ; if you had, they would have provided money for your ex- 
penses ; I guess you are an impostor." On my offering to show 
him my letters of commendation, he said, " I don't wish to see 
them ; pay your toll and be off." Again I told him, as I had no 
money, I could not. In a manner too abrupt to name, he bid me 
say no more, but go back whence I came ; then he fastened the 
gate, went into his house and shut the door. I turned away, and 
leaned over the railing of the bridge. The recollection of days 
when I was blessed with parental care, when I enjoyed the society 
of friends and brethren dear to my heart, and reflections on my 
present situation, now crowded into my mind ; the contrast over- 
powered my feelings, and my tears mingled with the stream. 
While thus venting my grief, several passed the gate. At length 
I fell on my knees, and besought the Lord to open my way, pro- 
vided he had sent me ; and if he had not, I desired it might contin- 
ue to be hedged up. When I arose, two men stood behind me, 
and one of them asked, " What is the matter ?" I replied, " I 
wish to pass the gate, but have no money." He then paid our toll, 
which I think was not more than four cents ; and much to my sur- 
prise, began to swear, and curse the gate keeper for detaining trav- 
ellers because they had no money. This has reminded me of the 
ravens that were sent to feed Elijah, when the Lord's professed 
people did not; and also of the Scripture, Prov. 21:18, which saith, 
" The wicked shall be a ransom for the righteous, and the trans- 
gressor for the upright." 

We had now entered New Hampshire, and were both weary and 
hungry. On coming to a large house, where all things around 
indicated that the inhabitant was wealthy, I thought to go in and 
beg a little food ; but this Scripture occurring to mind, " How 
hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God," 



DAVID MARKS. 61 

we passed on, and went into a little cottage, whose appearance be- 
spoke poverty. The people fed us, and I felt to thank God. Pro- 
ceeding a few miles into Chesterfield, I began, as the sun was set- 
ting, to seek a lodging ; but at every house, for some miles, I sought 
in vain. For as soon as they learned the object of my journey, the 
repeated answer was, " No." Had a poor drunkard asked their 
charity, doubtless they would have given him as much as a crust 
of bread, and a lodging by their fire-side ; but as I was a poor 
preacher, of a dissenting order, to me they would grant no favors. 
Some attempted to justify their conduct by this Scripture, " Re- 
ceive them not into your house" 

After requesting entertainment at a certain house, being asked 
of my business, I answered, " I believe the Lord has called me to 
labor in his vineyard ; and in obedience to this requirement, I am 
endeavoring to preach the gospel." Then they said that no one 
should preach without a collegiate education ; and that such charac- 
ters as I was they considered the false prophets, that should come 
in the latter days — and on such they should bestow no favors. It 
was now about 9 o'clock in the evening ; and having found no shel- 
ter, the possibility of perishing in the street by cold, was suggest- 
ed. Without asking leave, I kneeled down, and entreated the 
Lord that my way might be opened ; or if I must perish, that I 
might be reconciled, and submit to my fate without a murmuring 
word, or a repining thought. On bidding them farewell, the avo- 
man of the house said, " Stop a minute, I wish to talk with you. 
What made you first entertain an idea that the Lord had called 
you to preach ?" I answered, " The impression of his Spirit on 
my mind, and its agreement with the Scriptures." After asking 
several more questions, she said, " You may stay the night, pro- 
vided you will be civil, conform to our rules, retire in season, be 
locked in the room, and at 11 o'clock have a young man come to 
your apartment and lodge with you." I observed that we wished 
to leave early in the morning, and inquired at what time they would 
let us out. She replied, "At our own time" Not choosing to 
comply with such requisitions, we left them. 

We next called on a man who was a deacon. He asked his wife 
if we could tarry, but she refused her consent. Being busy, he had 
no leisure to make further inquiries ; but giving us a piece of mon- 
ney, said, " You can provide lodgings with that." I thanked both 
him and my Heavenly Father, and obtained lodgings at the next 
house. We retired to rest without any refreshment, and in the 
morning our hostess, who was a widow, kindly gave us breakfast, 
And with a heart glowing with gratitude to Him who hears the 
young ravens when they cry, I went on to Sullivan, and there 
preached Jesus. The following day we proceeded to Bradford, 
6 



62 MEMOIRS OF 

tarried with a Freewill Baptist deacon, who treated us courteously. 
We spent the next night in Wilmot, with a brother who received 
us affectionately, and my heart was comforted beneath his roof. 

Feb. 10, was the Sabbath, and finding a congregation in Ando- 
ver, assembled to hear Eld. Jesse Thompson, we went in, stran- 
gers to all present, and took a seat. At the close of his sermon, I 
made a few remarks. This meeting was very solemn and refresh- 
ing. In the afternoon, Elder Thompson invited me to address the 
people. In compliance with the invitation, I opened my mouth, 
and the Lord gave utterance ; he made his word as sharp arrows 
in the hearts of his enemies, and almost every face was bedewed 
with tears. Near the close of the exercises, about one hundred, on 
being requested, arose to manifest their desires to find Jesus. In 
the evening I attended a conference meeting, and the next day 
preached in a ball-room. Several, humbling themselves, bowed 
with Christians in time of devotion. 

About this time, Moses Manrow left me. He now took his own 
course ; soon became irreligious, and at length a base impostor. 
May God save me, and all who read this, from pride, " the snare 
of the fowler," which effected the downfall of this youth, who but 
for this, might have been a burning light. 

During the four days following, I held two meetings in Wilmot, 
two in Sutton, in which several kneeled for prayers, one in Spring- 
field, and on the 16th of the month, went to Enfield, and tarried 
the night with Elder E. Chase, editor of the Religious Informer. 

Sunday, Feb. 17, Elder J. Thompson preached at Enfield, in a 
ball-room : after sermon, I gave an exhortation ; and in the even- 
ing enjoyed a solemn season at Canaan, while entreating sinners 
to be reconciled to God. Next morning, I left without breakfast, 
having twelve or fourteen miles to walk before ten o'clock. After 
going nine miles through the deep and drifted snow, my strength 
was nearly exhausted ; but embracing an opportunity to ride the 
rest of the way, I reached my appointment. The Lord gave me 
freedom in speaking from Romans 9:13, "Jacob have I loved, but 
Esau have I hated :" and my soul was filled with joy inexpressi- 
ble. Many wept, and I believe good was done. In the evening, 
we enjoyed a solemn season in the south part of Wilmot. The 
four days following, I spent in Andover, and attended six meet- 
ings, in which were appearances of good ; but not so much pros- 
pect of a revival as had been expected. Feb. 23, I held another 
meeting in Wilmot ; the day following in Springfield, and my soul 
was filled with the joys of the heavenly world. 

I was now about to return to New York. The people here had 
received me in the name of the Lord, and shown me great kind- 
ness. I came to them penniless ; but, through their liberality, I 



DAVID MARKS. 63 

had now $10. My prayer was, that God would reward them ; 
for I believed, agreeably to the words of Christ, Matt. 10:42, 
" Whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup 
of cold water only, in the name of a disciple, shall not lose his re- 
ward." 

Monday, Feb. 25, I commenced my journey ; having a chain of 
appointments four hundred and fifty miles in length, and some of 
nine months standing. The day before, considerable snow had 
fallen, and the wind blew, so that in some places, the road was 
filled to the tops of the fences ; yet I was enabled to walk twenty- 
two miles, and attend three appointments. The following day, 
after travelling fifteen miles to Washington, I found that I could 
not get to my appointment in season, and hired a man to carry me 
four miles : still it was eight miles further and the road not broken. 
Proceeding slowly, I arrived at the meeting about seven in the 
evening. The house was filled with people, and I commenced 
speaking ; but was soon interrupted by some that came to make 
disturbance. I entreated them to behave with decency, but they 
were the more outrageous, and swore violently. Some present 
threatened them with prosecution if they did not desist ; upon 
which, one laid aside his coat to fight. After expostulating with 
them a considerable time, and being convinced that all attempts to 
persuade them to order would be useless, I left the assembly, and 
it soon dispersed. This meeting was in Stoddard, N. H., and the 
only one of my appointments that was ever broken up by the un- 
godly ; probably this would not have been, had not the disturbers 
been drunken. 

I went to the tavern, and some of the assembly followed, wish- 
ing me to preach there ; but the gang pursued us, and soon all was 
confusion. Some who appeared friendly observed, that as I was 
a stranger and had suffered abuse, they would make a contribution, 
as a kind of compensation. To this I objected. A few cents 
were offered me, which I chose not to accept ; being resolved, if 
the people would not hear my Master's word, to receive none of 
their substance. O the grief of my heart, while witnessing the 
rebellion of this people ! My soul mourned, and my eyes ran 
down with tears. I left the place, and walking five miles further, 
stopped for the night ; but in the morning, finding that amid the 
troubles of the preceding evening, a bundle of my clothes had 
been left at the tavern, I hired a horse, and after returning for them, 
proceeded again on foot. 

The road being muddy, and the remaining snow melting, I was 
much fatigued. All things appeared gloomy ; and for miles I 
strewed my path with tears. Then, sitting down by the way side 
to rest my weary limbs, I thought of home, — of the great and im- 



64 MEMOIRS OF 

portant work in which I was engaged; the powers of unbelief;: 
and the hardness of men's hearts. O, how insufficient to preach 
the gospel, did I feel ! But, while reflecting that the Lord's 
strength is made perfect in weakness, in those whom he sends ; 
that he knows all the sorrows of his children ; that he hath said, 
" Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world," — a 
voice, whispered, " My grace is sufficient for thee" My heart was 
comforted. 

Feb. 28, I preached in Chesterfield, near the manufactory, to an 
attentive assembly and enjoyed the presence of my Master. In 
the west part of the town, after rising a hill near Connecticut riv- 
er, I saw, in a vale before me, a large assembly in front of a house : 
I recollected kneeling and praying near that place, four weeks pre- 
vious, and making an appointment for a boy of sixteen to preach at 
this hour. Some, as they were passing by, heard it, and circulated the 
notice quite largely. As I approached the crowd, an aged, grave, and 
neatly dressed gentleman, met me ; and inquired if I was the young 
man who appointed that meeting ; being answered in the affirma- 
tive, he invited me to follow him. The people giving place, we 
came to the door of the house, which was already full. He hand- 
ed me his Bible, and placed a chair upon the door step. Standing 
in the chair, I spoke from the Scripture, "Many are called, hat few 
are chosen" Matt. 22:14. I endeavored to show who are called, 
even all that are afar off by wicked works, according to the invita- 
tion of Scripture, Isa. 45:22. " Look unto me, and be ye saved, 
all the ends of the earth ; for I am God and there is none else" 
Then I attempted to sIioav, that they who are chosen, are chosen 
" through sanctification of the Spirit/' and belief of the truth — 
that they must believe, before they can become the chosen of the 
Lord ; and that the reason that few are chosen, is, that few will 
hear or obey the call. Much solemnity rested on the assembly, and 
the greater part seemed deeply affected. At the close of the meet- 
ing, the gentleman before named, returned thanks to the Lord, — 
for the happy disappointment they had met with — that the young 
man, instead of ridiculing the religion of Jesus, as they had feared 
he would,* had come with tears, entreating his fellow youth to 
be reconciled to God — and besought the Lord to impress the sol- 
emn truth they had heard upon their minds. He then proposed a 
contribution, and several dollars were given me. I was informed 
that this gentleman was a preacher, and an officer of a literary in- 

* From the novelty of the appointment made as above named, for a boy of sixteen to 
preach, a large concourse of people were expected to assemble. And as the friends of 
religion feared that either the boy would not attend, or, if he should attend, that his ob- 
ject might be to ridicule religion, they had solicited this traveller to delay his journey a 
day, and attend this meeting, for the purpose of promoting order, and of preaching to 
the people if circumstances should require. 



DAVID MARKS. 65 

stitution of distinction in New England, and that he was now go- 
ing, in company with his wife, to visit his friends in Vermont. On 
leaving the place, he carried me in his sleigh two miles, invited me 
to go home with him, and said he would give ten dollars toward 
my support at school. As I did not incline to his proposal, he then 
said, he would himself give me six months' support at college, and 
that a whole course of collegiate study should be provided me free 
of expense, if I would return with him. But having appoint- 
ments, and feeling no liberty to leave the work to which God had 
called me, I expressed my mind, acknowledged his kindness, and told 
him I could not accept his generous offer. He then remarked, 
that education was good, and very necessary ; although without it, 
men called of God, might be useful. To these remarks, I assent- 
ed ; and would gladly have accepted his proposal, could I have 
done it without the sacrifice of my peace. Science may gain the 
favor of man — find access to the hearts of many, and may often 
extend the preacher's usefulness. But the path of duty appeared 
to lead me in a more humble and self-denying way ; to go to the 
poor and the ignorant ; — to tell them, in my simple language, that Je- 
sus died for sinners, and exhort them to flee from the wrath to come. 
On parting, he gave me good counsel, and bade me " God speed." 

I then crossed the Connecticut and West rivers, and found a 
large assembly in Dummerston, almost weary of waiting for me. 
The Lord gave me a message to the people. Here was a church 
that had left the Calvinistic Baptists, and declared themselves 
Freewill Baptists ; though they knew no denomination professing 
their sentiments. When they first separated, their number was 
small ; but now it had increased to eighty, and several other con- 
siderable churches had united with them. Elders Mann and 
Wells had the care of them ; — like other dissenters, they had been 
much persecuted. They received me gladly ; and we found we 
were of one heart, of one soul, and spoke the same thing. These 
churches afterward united with the Freewill Baptist denomina- 
tion. 

March 1. In Marlborough, Vermont, I spoke to a few ; of these, 
some laughed, and some wept. The next day, I crossed the Green 
Mountains to Bennington ; and the day following went to Hoosac, 
where I had made an appointment at the Baptist meeting house, 
provided the church should be willing I should preach in it ; oth- 
erwise, it was to be in the highway. This day being the Sabbath, 
the church, after consulting together, concluded, that as I could not 
harm the house, I might address the people. Putting my trust in 
the Lord, I spoke on the subject of the resurrection. March 4, at 
a meeting in Brunswick, the Lord gave me much of his Spirit, and 
touched the hearts of the hearers. Two dollars were here given me. 
6* 



G6 MEMOIRS OF 

March 5. I had an appointment at the court house in Troy. 
On my arrival, hnding the door closed against me, I gave notice 
that I would preach on the steps in fifteen minutes. But before 
the time expired, the door was opened, a niunher assembled, and 
I spoke to them according to the grace given me. A well dressed 
gentleman, haying a large ivory -headed cane, hung by a ribbon on 
his wrist, sat just before me. and seemed to hear and look very 
earnestly. At first, he appeared to me like " some great one," who 
thought, by his presence, to embarrass me : and to my sorrow I 
found myself somewhat intimidated : but remembering that men 
are only dust, and that the servant of the Most High should not 
fear the face of clay, my mind was measurably relieved of its em- 
barrassment. When the meeting closed, he beckoned to me. observ- 
ing that he wished some conversation. Following him two rods 
from the court house, he stopped on the side walk, raised his hand, 
and in cin elevated tone of voice, said ; " I am a Methodist 
tiher in this city, and your friend ; — I advise you to go home 
and stay there till you can preach. You may preach till you are 
as old as Jlethuselah. and you will never do any good, unless you 
preach letter than you have to-day" He then left me without fur- 
ther ceremony. I stood amazed, and a flood of tears bursting 
from my eyes, gave some relief to my wounded spirit. Gladly 
would I have taken his advice, if I could have enjoyed peace in bo 
doing. But my commission had not been received from man, nei- 
ther could it be recalled by man : and the path of duty had been 
too plain for me to doubt at this time. A friend solicited 
me to go to his house and take refreshment ; but an appointment 
necessitated me to decline. We walked a little distance in com- 
pany, and he inquired. " What said our preacher to you ?' r I gave 
no answer till he remarked, they feared he had raid something that 
would occasion me a trial. I then stated his remarks ; upon which 
he appeared grieved, and observed, •• He will hear of this again.'* 
In an affectionate manner, he gave me good advice, and said. " Do 
be discouraged, but do what you think to be duty ;" then bid- 
ding me u God speed." we parted. This man was a citizen of 
Troy, and a justice of the peace. I understood that for many 
years, he had been a member of the Metb <ciety, and for 

some time a class leader. Some others invited me to their I 
id on parting, left some small pieces oi in my hand. 

At tins time, the ice in the Hudson was broken up, and floating 
down the stream, rendered the crossing so dangerous, that the ferry- 
man durst not venture with me till evening; then without difficulty we 
reached the opposite shore. The mud was deep, and the travelling 
quite fatiguing ; I succeeded, however, in meeting my appointment 
the next morning in Schenectady. On the day "following, I went 



DAVID MARKS. bi 

to Florida, and preached to a solemn assembly in a ball room. The 
Sckoharrie bridge had been carried away by a late flood, which 
obliged me to disappoint two congregations. Walking up the creek 
nine miles in the early part of the evening, I crossed on Burton's 
bridge ; and then walked seven miles further, to Dea. Campbell's, 
in Charlestown ; where, at a late hour, they received me affection- 
ately. Here, I found my horse had been very sick, and was now 
hardly fit for use. I held a meeting in this place, and a good sea- 
son was enjoyed. The people were very kind, and communicated 
considerable, for which I felt grateful. 

I next held meetings in Canajoharrie, Hardwick, and Winfield. 
Sabbath, March 10, I spoke to an assembly of several hundred in 
Brookfield. The converts, with apparent gladness, welcomed my 
return ; and many of them appeared much engaged. Several, who 
were mourning for their sins when I left the town the winter be- 
fore, were now happy in the Lord, 

On Monday morning I left early, having an appointment at the 
Baptist Seminary in Hamilton, at 9 o'clock, A. M. When within 
three miles of the place, as I was riding down a hill on a cjuick 
step, my horse stumbled, and I fell on my head ; but rising imme- 
diately on my feet, a violent pain caused by the fall, deprived me 
of strength, and I fell into a ditch by the side of the road. The 
air appeared to me full of fire, and everything had a fiery and un- 
natural appearance. My mind wavered — feelings of insensibility 
fast stole upon me ; — and, concluding death's cold hand was about 
to release my soul from its house of clay, in my thoughts I bade 
adieu to the world with its sorrows : — a calm peace filled my 
soul, and in a moment I was senseless. The next I knew, a stran- 
ger stood behind me, supporting me in his arms. He had seen me 
fall, and had taken me up, expecting I was dead. But much to the 
surprise of myself and others, I so far recovered that I was able to 
ride on a slow walk to my appointment, about an hour after the 
time. I spoke from Matt. 24:44 ; " Therefore he ye also ready : for 
in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh." To me 
this was a solemn meeting, and the audience seemed greatly affect- 
ed. At the close, a young man desired me to pray with him, and 
said he was resolved to seek the Lord. During prayer, he kneel- 
ed in the presence of the assembly, and soon after found peace in 
believing. In the after part of the day, though the travelling was 
very bad, several hundred assembled in Eaton, to whom I spoke 
with much freedom. Scores wept profusely, and sighed for salva- 
tion ; about forty arose for prayer. At a prayer meeting in the 
evening, twenty-five promised, by giving me their hand as a sign. 
to seek the Savior, 



68 MEMOIRS OF 

Leaving Eaton, I held several meetings in Georgetown and 
Nelson ; and in the latter place met with opposition from the wick- 
ed. My labors in Nelson seemed to me almost lost ; but a minis- 
ter who resided in that vicinity has since told me that he baptized 
several, who dated their awakening at the meeting which was so 
disturbed by the ungodly. How little does the sower know, when 
he sows the seed, which shall prosper " this or that ; or whether 
they both shall be alike good." Often the servant of Christ, after 
dispensing the word, groans within himself and sighs, while he is 
tempted to believe his labor has been in vain ; but the promise is 
sure, " He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, 
shall, doubtless, come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves 
with him." Psalm 126:6. 

On Thursday, I preached at Manlius Square, and during a stay 
of three days, attended eight meetings in Manlius township. Some 
were awakened, and eleven or twelve solemnly engaged to attend 
to "life's great concern." Sunday, March 17, I held two meetings : 
the latter in Gettysburg was a favored season. The next day, I 
arrived at my father's, having been absent four months and six days. 
In this time I had seen much of the glory of God, and his won- 
derful works among the children of men. My Heavenly Father 
had watched over me, and supplied my wants, and now permitted 
me to return in peace, to my surviving parent. Blessed be the 
Lord for all his tender mercies. 

Having used the utmost economy in my expenses, and carefully 
guarded the small pieces of money given me in different places, I 
found enough remaining to pay for my horse ; and I felt to praise 
God, and adore his providence in thus opening my way to travel 
and publish salvation. 



DAVID MARKS, 69 



CHAPTER VII. 



The particulars of my travels and labors for nearly three months 
after my return from Nevj Hampshire, 

During a slay of six days in Junius, I attended four meetings ; 
then leaving home on Tuesday, March 26, went to Scipio, and 
there saw my youngest brother ; and thence went to Genoa, where 
my sister resided. While with them, my feelings were pained, and 
my heart was sad, as their presence called to mind the change death 
had made in my father's family ; and although I had good reason 
to believe they were committed to the care of those who treated 
them kindly, yet the reflection that they were motherless, almost 
overpowered my feelings. 

Tarrying in Scipio and Genoa a few days, I held ten meetings, 
in some of which the power of God was manifested. On Monday 
evening, April 1st, I preached to a solemn and attentive assembly 
in Dry den ; and the next day in Candor, where I enjoyed the sweet 
presence of my Master. Some were awakened, and soon found 
Jesus. 

From Candor, I went to Owego creek, and attended four meet- 
ings ; thence to Caroline and preached thrice. In the last meeting, 
a number were seriously concerned for their eternal welfare, and 
bowed the knee while we pleaded for mercy in their behalf. Some 
were soon brought to sing praises to the Redeemer. On the even- 
ing of the same day, I preached again in Candor, and the Spirit 
gave utterance. The power of the Highest gladdened the hearts 
of his saints, while sinners trembled under his mighty hand. It 
was a time of mourning and weeping, of joy and gladness. Eight 
were awakened, and with four other mourners, bowed for the first 
time, at mercy's altar. Some of these were of the first respecta- 
bility in Society, soon became happy and sung the praises of 
Emmanuel. 

Monday, April 8, I held a meeting in Owego ; then crossing the 
Susquehanna, entered Pennsylvania, preached once, then returned 
and spoke at the Gaskill ferry. Many appeared to receive the 
word with gladness. Crossing the Susquehanna again, I preached 
a second time in the village of Owego. A considerable assembly 
was present, and some heard with candor, while others, like Gallio, 
cared for none of these things. After this, I attended a meeting in 
Berkshire ; and on the morning of the 10th, though very rainy, a 
large number assembled near Owego creek. The Lord gave me a 
message, and directed it to the hearts of the people. In the after- 



70 MEMOIRS OF 

noon I preached again, and in the evening held a meeting in Car- 
oline. Here twenty-two covenanted to kneel and pray twice a day 
for three weeks, and gave me their hands as a token. Many of 
these seemed to be deeply sensible of their lost situation without 
the Savior. 

Thursday, I enjoyed a precious season in Candor while preach- 
ing Christ. Seven told me, that since my last meeting in that 
place they had found Jesus, and were happy in his love. In a 
meeting the next day, I w r as especially favored with the Divine 
presence, and heard seven declare their determination to seek the 
Lord. Saturday, I rode twenty-three miles to Berkshire, and in 
the evening, spoke the word with freedom. Many appeared ten- 
der, and four desired the prayers of Christians. 

Sunday, April 14, I held three meetings ; one in Candor, and 
two fifteen miles distant ; and the next day attended meeting in 
Candor. Another soul had been brought into the liberty of the 
gospel. After sermon, we walked to the stream, and a solemn con- 
gregation crowded its banks. Elder G. baptized nine of the con- 
verts, who came up out of the water happy, and rejoicing in God. 
Sinners wept as they beheld the scene ; and soon after leaving the 
water, one heavy laden soul came into the liberty of the gospel. 
In the evening, the cries of penitents still saluted our ears. 

Tuesday, I again spoke in the name of the Lord, and a few came 
forward for prayers, some of whom appeared to be not far from 
the kingdom of God. The day following, while speaking the word 
on the Shendaken creek, the power of God descended on the peo- 
ple. Those who had neglected the Savior, saw the awful nature 
of sin: and a view of its consequences caused many to sigh. Sev- 
eral gave me their hands, desiring to be remembered at the throne 
of grace. In the evening, I preached in Candor, and a number 
of converts, for the first time, confessed Christ. 

At a meeting during the revival in Candor, it was impressed on my 
mind after preaching, to say to the people, that I believed a person 
■near me would die in three days. No sooner had I made the re- 
mark, than several began to weep bitterly. On the next day, as I 
was visiting from house to house, I came to an inn ; and a daugh- 
ter of the landlord asked me if she was not the one concerning whom 
I had the impression on the evening previous. I told her she was. 
Immediately she wept aloud. I told her my impression did not re- 
spect temporal death, but a death to sin. Then she appeared to be 
relieved, and said she hoped it would be so. At this instant her 
father came in, in a great rage, and demanded whether I was the 
boy that was around scaring folks to death by prophesying that they 
would die. Before I had half answered his question, he chased 
me out of his house. I entreated him to let me explain what I 



DAVID MARKS. 71 

had said, but he refused. I then requested that I might pray in 
the house ; this he refused also. I then asked if I might pray at 
his door steps. He then chased me into the street. His wife and 
daughter wept and entreated him to forbear ; but in vain. I then 
kneeled in the street before the house and prayed. He shut the 
door and went out of sight ; but his wife and family opened the 
windows and listened. After this I visited other families, and 
found that great opposition was raised among the people and breth- 
ren. Contempt was heaped upon me without reserve ; and some 
said, " We will see whether he is a true prophet." Sometimes I 
indeed trembled myself, and feared I had been mistaken. But two 
or three hours before the three days were out, it pleased the Lord 
to convert the young woman, and this generally stopped the mouths 
of gainsay ers. I was informed that the landlord had a tenant who 
was pious, and that by hearing his landlord say much against me, 
he became doubtful whether I had been sent of the Lord. He had 
• practiced praying daily under a certain apple-tree in the orchard ; 
and now he prayed to Him who made the Jig-tree barren, if he had 
sent me, to make that apple-tree which had just leaved out, " w^^A- 
er away" From that day the leaves withered, and in three weeks 
they became dry. He said he sought to find a natural cause for 
the dying of the tree, but could find none. 

Thursday and Friday, April 18 and 19, having appointments, I 
rode sixty miles in a storm of rain and snow to the town of Milo ; 
and on the two days following, attended five meetings in Benton 
and Penn Yan. Monday, 2 2d, I was much distressed with a pain 
in my side ; but rode to an appointment in Jerusalem, and spoke 
half an hour to an assembly that appeared much affected. At the 
close of the interview, a young man came forward for prayer, soon 
professed faith in the Redeemer, and became a bold witness for the 
truth. In compliance with a request, I went to the house formerly 
occupied by Jemima Wilkinson, who called herself, " The Univer- 
sal Friend ;" and was kindly treated by the people living in the 
house, to whom she bequeathed her property. I could not ascer- 
tain that her followers (as is commonly reported) call her Christ. 
They say, " The Spirit of Christ dwelt abundantly in the Friend" 
They would not call her a woman or Jemima Wilkinson, nor apply 
to her any of the personal pronouns of the feminine gender. They 
are industrious, charitable, regular in their habits, much attached 
to their own customs and sentiments, and treat all with civility and 
tenderness. They disapprove of marriage. 

On Tuesday, I was relieved of the pain in my side by the let- 
ting of blood, and preached twice in Middlesex. The day follow- 
ing, I held a meeting in Bristol, thirty miles distant, and the next 
day preached in Richmond. Passing through Livonia, I preached 



72 MEMOIRS OF 

Christ in the villages of Geneseo and Moscow. I felt great bold- 
ness in proclaiming free salvation, and in vindicating the doctrine, m 
that " God is no respecter of persons" but will have all men to he 
saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth. This doctrine pleas- 
ed some, and offended others. One of my hearers, whose heart the 
Lord opened, requested entertainment for me at a public house, 
promising that he would pay the charge. But the landlord refus- 
ed, declaring that a man who would preach such doctrine, should 
have no place in his house. I understood also, that a man follow- 
ed me with a horsewhip, to chastise me for preaching heresy, but 
finally was persuaded to desist. 

After leaving Moscow, I attended meetings in Perry, Leicester, 
Wales, Boston and Eden, which closed my line of appointments 
that had been long standing, and had employed my time for nearly 
two months. 

On Friday, May 3, I left Boston, and at five o'clock, P. M. 
preached in Attica, forty miles distant ; at nine the next morning, 
in Perry, twenty-two miles from Attica ; and at twelve the same 
day in Moscow. In the latter place, twelve manifested a desire 
for the one thing needful. The Lord gave me much freedom in 
speaking to an assembly in the evening at Livonia, and the hearts 
of many appeared to be touched. After the close of the meeting, 
I rode eight miles the same evening, in a cold rain ; and in conse- 
quence, found my health much impaired. 

Sunday, May 5, I preached in the A. M. to a people in Bristol, 
that seemed to hear as for eternity ; and in the P. M. to several 
hundred in the north part of the town. I felt to bless God for the 
assistance of his Holy Spirit, and the solemnity that reigned. At 
the hour of five, I preached standing on a stone, in the open street, 
to about three hundred people in Canandaigua village. Some ap- 
peared to receive the word ; others cared not for the things which 
belong to their eternal peace. At ten the next morning, standing 
on a stump where two ways met, I preached in Gorham to about 
forty, who seemed to hear for the judgment day ; and at one 
o'clock, P. M., spoke again in the street, to about two hundred, 
near Federal hollow. In this meeting the Lord gave me great 
freedom, and directed the truth to the hearts of the hearers. At 
five o'clock, P. M., I spoke to an assembly in Middlesex. The 
next day I rode twenty miles, and attended three meetings ; and 
the day following preached twice. Thursday, after travelling 
twenty-four miles, and preaching in Penn Yan and Benton, I 
found myself quite ill, and unable to attend my evening appoint- 
ment in Milo. The next day, being somewhat strengthened, 1 
travelled twenty miles and held one meeting. 



DAYID MARKS. 73 

On Saturday and Sunday, the 11th and 12th of May, the Ben- 
ton Quarterly Meeting was held in Junius. I was still very fee- 
ble, but being requested, I spoke to the people on the Sabbath, 
from Acts 17:30 : " And the times of this ignorance God winked 
at, but now commandeih all men everywhere to repent" 

I now found my illness to be occasioned by the measles ; a dis- 
order of which I had not before had the least suspicion. As I had 
been constantly meeting with people, a large number had taken the 
disorder, and I felt much tried on the account ; but as I could not 
find that any, who took it of me, died in consequence of it, I was 
much relieved. After meeting closed, with difficulty, I walked 
two miles to my father's, was confined one week, and consequently un- 
able to attend my appointments, which extended to the west one hun- 
dred miles. This was the first time I had disappointed congrega- 
tions on account of illness. Large numbers collected in many 
places ; and though unable to be with them in body, I was with 
them in spirit, and earnestly prayed that Jesus would be one in 
their midst. 

Monday, May 20, having recovered from my illness, I set out 
for the Owego Quarterly Meeting, which was to be held in Can- 
dor, on the 25th and 26th of the month. I tarried two days by 
the way, in Dryclen, and preached the word. At the Quarterly 
Meeting a good season was enjoyed, and on the Sabbath, several 
were baptized. 

Monday, I left for the Holland Purchase, and in ^ve days travelled 
one hundred and ninety miles, to Concord. In this town the Erie 
Quarterly Meeting commenced its session on Saturday, June 1, 
1822. A grove was prepared with seats for the people, and about 
one hundred assembled. After some preaching and exhortation, 
I addressed the assembly about three quarters of an hour ; but 
enjoying little liberty, I took my seat under considerable depres- 
sion of spirit, and soon the exercises closed. In the evening, a 
preacher, who heard my discourse, observed that he did not think 
it was my duty to preach, and that he was satisfied my preaching 
had done no good. After replying that I felt I had not a praying 
audience, he said he did not think I had ; that he did not pray for 
me, for he thought me out of the place of duty. Feeling con- 
scious it had been my intention to walk in the path of humble obe- 
dience, a degree of peace comforted my heart. 

Monday, I preached in Zoar and Concord. My soul was happy > 
the Lord blessed his word, and in one of these meetings, five awak- 
ened souls came forward for prayer. At five o'clock, P. M. the 
preacher above mentioned held a meeting in Boston. After the 
conclusion of his sermon, I gave an exhortation, and then accom- 
panied him to Elder R. Carey's. On resuming the subject of for- 
7 



74 MEMOIRS OF 

mer conversation, lie said to me, " Either you or I have not the 
spirit of Christ ; — It is pride that causes you to travel so extensive- 
ly, — you wish to get a great name" S?c, — " curiosity brings the 
people out to hear you, and after preaching two or three times in a 
place, you cannot get so large a congregation as at first" To these 
remarks I made little reply ; for being confident, that, in some 
things at least, he labored under a mistake, they affected me lit- 
tle. 

But as I awoke next morning, a gloom veiled my mind. I arose 
and without taking any food, proceeded on foot, through a severe 
rain, to Eden, where I had an appointment. While travelling, the 
remarks of him whom I believed a father in Israel, and to whom I 
had looked for encouragement, rushed upon me. And reflecting 
that his labors had been greatly blessed to the conversion of souls — 
that he was highly esteemed, and considered a spiritual preacher, 
sore temptations beset me. Thinking I might have been deceived 
respecting duty, and have engaged in a work to which God had 
not called me, my faith began to fail — unbelief increased — the 
powers of darkness bound my soul, and all my hope seemed blast- 
ed. My distress and trials were past expression, and unparalleled 
by any thing that I had hitherto experienced. I turned aside into 
a wood, prostrated myself on the wet ground, and poured forth my 
grief in sighs and tears. Perhaps I never came nearer sinking 
under trials, and vowing, like Jeremiah, no more to speak in the 
name of the Lord, than I did at this time. I lamented that I had 
any appointments, and concluded that after attending those I had 
already given out, I would make no more ; and in case there was 
no change in my mind, would tell the people that I had been de- 
ceived and should preach no more. O how important, that fathers 
in Israel be exceedingly careful that they hurt not the oil and the 
wine. Young preachers, and those who are inexperienced, can- 
not, at the best, exercise the wisdom and skill of more experi- 
enced ministers. They may often err in judgment as to duty — 
they may often err in the selection of a subject, and in the explan- 
ation of Scripture, as possibly / might in this case, and probably 
may have done at some other times. Yet as these errors are al- 
most inseparable from the improvement of young and weak 
gifts, how necessary it is that elder brethren deal tenderly 
with such ; striving with gentleness to admonish and correct 
them, when they see them in error. A few words of discour- 
agement from one of age and experience, may forever destroy the 
confidence and faith of the tender mind. Experience lamentably 
proves the hurt that is done tender minds by harsh treatment and 
severe reproofs from the fathers and mothers in Israel. Instead of 
its disposing them to trust more in the Lord, it generally discour- 



DAVID MARKS. 75 

ages and disheartens them, and frequently causes their faith to fail. 
may the Lord give his followers wisdom to become nursing fa- 
thers and nursing mothers in Israel, and gently lead the children 
along in the paths of duty. I arose and went to my appointment 
with a gloomy mind, and dreaded to meet the people. On enter- 
ing the assembly, I remained in silence a few minutes, thinking to 
tell them I had been deceived with regard to my duty ; but in an in- 
stant, former experience and former evidences of the duty God requir- 
ed of me, rose clearly to view ; and with them, peace flowed into my 
soul. My doubts fled — and reflecting that " Great men are not 
always wise ;" neither are good men alio ays perfect, I was convinced 
my duty might be better known to myself than to any other erring mor- 
tal ; and, though saying in my heart with the apostle, " Who is 
sufficient for these things?" I arose and commenced speaking. 
The word of the Lord was like fire shut up in my bones, and his 
power attended it to the hearts of the people. Sinners wept, 
saints rejoiced, and my soul was happy in God. Seven were 
awakened and bowed before the Lord, while we pleaded for mercy. 
I next preached with much freedom in Hamburg, Attica, and 
again in Eden. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

My Journey to Ohio. 

For some time I had felt that it was my duty to go to Ohio, and 
declare the glad tidings of salvation to the inhabitants of that new 
section of country. And having made such preparations for my 
journey as were practicable, I left my horse with a friend in Ham- 
burg, went to Black Rock on Wednesday, June 12, and engaged 
a passage in a schooner to Portland, Ohio. In the morning we em- 
barked, and sailing up Niagara, anchored opposite Buffalo till 
about four o'clock, P. M., when we weighed anchor, and before a 
gentle breeze sailed up the lake. The sun shone beautifully, and 
the waves rolled gently, as the land of my friends and acquaint- 
ance gradually receded. Placing myself at the stem, I fixed my 
eyes on Buffalo, till night rendered every object indistinct ; and I 
said adieu to many precious brethren and agreeable acquaintances, 
who have often administered to my necessities and soothed my sor- 
rows. Then turning my thoughts to the land in which I should 
soon be a stranger, tears stole down my cheeks. But reflecting 
upon the care my Heavenly Father has over his children, I retir- 



76 MEMOIRS OF 






ed to the cabin, and soon sunk into a gentle slumber for the first 
time on the water, and passed the night in a calm and sweet re- 
pose. In the morning we found we had made ninety miles ; the 
sun again shone pleasantly, and the bosom of the lake was peace- 
ful. At the south stretched the Pennsylvania shores ; at the north 
appeared a vast expanse of water. While gazing on the sublime 
and beautiful prospect before me, my heart was filled with adora- 
tion. A calm succeeding, we advanced but little ; and on Satur- 
day were still in sight of Pennsylvania. Being requested, I preach- 
ed on deck from John 3:14, 15. Although the crew seemed to 
listen attentively, the word appeared to have little place in their 
hearts. This day I ate the last of my provisions ; the weather be- 
came unpleasant, and the lake that a little time before was almost 
unruffled, now became very tempestuous. 

Monday, June 17, the wind and storm abated. Our voyage 
having been longer than we expected, and the wind being still con- 
trary, the captain of the vessel, notwithstanding his engagement, 
now refused to take me to Portland ; and after receiving my last 
money for the passage, he set me with four others on the peninsula 
west of Sandusky bay, and six miles opposite Portland. Here 
was a light-house, and besides the man who kept it, there were no 
inhabitants on this part of the peninsula. It was now after sun- 
set, and during the last forty hours I had eaten but one meal, which 
was given me by the captain of the vessel. The man who kept 
the light-house, had but little provision with him, having been dis- 
appointed of an expected recruit in consequence of the unfavora- 
ble wind. So without tasting any food, I lay down on the floor 
and closed my eyes to sleep, hoping to forget my hunger. But 
recollections of the kind brethren in New York, who had often fed 
and lodged me with willing and joyful hearts, together with the 
painful contrast of my present situation, crowded into my mind, 
and drove slumber from my eyes. When the men who land- 
ed with me had fallen asleep, the keeper, remembering the poor 
boy that had come far from a father's house to preach the gospel, 
brought me a cracker and half a pint of milk. This was a deli- 
cious morsel, and I received it with thanksgiving. Next morning 
the sun rose with splendor, and I walked out to view the surround- 
ing scenery. The waters of Erie lay on the east, west and north ; 
south, the prospect was bounded by a wood ; across the bay, Port- 
land appeared in sight. But I knew no way to go thither, for 
there was no vessel on this part of the peninsula, and I could not 
go by land, as the distance was sixty miles, through a marshy wil- 
derness. Going into the top of the light-house, I looked eastward, 
and, though my hunger was oppressive, and I could neither see my 
native land, nor any place where I had formerly travelled, yet I 



DAVID MARKS. 77 

found Christ to be precious, and his love filled my soul. Two of 
the men who landed with me had each of them a rifle ; and going 
this morning into a wood, they killed a fawn, which we cooked and 
ate without seasoning, or any other kind of food ; and it seemed a 
delicious morsel as ever was tasted. After this, while walking in 
the wood for meditation, I came suddenly to a prairie, on which 
the grass that was two or three feet high, was gently waving over 
the extended plain. Here nature displayed its lovely charms. I 
sat down under the shade — gazed on its beauties — and praised their 
Author. 

The next day, being weary of waiting for a passage, one of the 
men and myself caulked an old skiff, that had been washed upon 
the shore, and set off for Portland. The skiff was so small, that 
our weight sunk it nearly to the top ; and it leaked so fast, that it 
kept me busy in lading out the water with my shoe, which I used 
for want of something better. After rowing along the shore about 
two miles, we changed our course directly across the bay for Port- 
land. The wind was against us ; and when about one mile from 
the shore, the waves ran three or four feet high, and frequently 
came over the top of the skiff. As we could not swim, we now 
began to view ourselves in danger ; but having no wish to return, 
we endeavored to make our way through wind and waves. Every 
moment our situation grew more perilous. The wind increased, 
so that we made but little progress ; and we determined to return 
if possible. On turning the skiff about, we were in danger of fall- 
ing into the troughs ; but we succeeded so well, that not more than 
a pail full of water ran into our vessel ; and we reached the shore 
at Sand Point, about two miles from the light-house. I was glad 
to get on the land again, though I suffered with hunger, in addition 
to being both wet and cold. Nature itself seemed to frown ; the 
sky was lowering ; the cold north-west wind rustled among the 
trees, and the water in billows dashed the shore. Having eaten 
nothing but fresh venison, without salt or other provisions, my stom- 
ach became disordered, and brought on weakness and stupidity. I 
walked along the shore ; and while my former condition, when I 
enjoyed plenty beneath the parental roof, or among kind brethren, 
was contrasted with my present situation, in which I had not even 
the privilege of entering the houses of strangers, I wept bitterly. 
Falling on my knees, I called on the name of the Lord. My soul 
was soon happy and joyful ; and, though I knew no way to get 
off the peninsula, or after getting off, to succeed among strangers 
without money, I repented not my having come into this state. 

Soon we met with a man who came to the peninsula in search 
of cattle, and was waiting the arrival of a vessel. I gladly warm- 
ed myself by the fire he had kindled ; and he gave us some bread 
7* 



78 MEMOIRS OF 

and pork ; but my stomach was so out of order, I could eat little, 
In the afternoon we were gladdened by the sight of a vessel, 
coming from Portland ; and on its arrival, we solicited a passage. 
As their business would not permit them to land us at Portland, 
they took us across the bay to Cedar Point. Taking our portman- 
teaus on our shoulders, we walked nine miles on the beach of the 
lake, before we came to any house ; and being very thirsty, were 
glad to drink some poor water. After travelling three miles fur- 
ther into Milan, I found brethren, who received me affectionately. 
Blessed be the Lord for all his goodness. 

In this town, a Freewill Baptist church had been gathered three 
years before, by Elder J. N. Hinkley ; and from that time it had 
been visited by only two or three preachers of the Freewill Bap- 
tist order ; yet, they had continued their meetings, and in a good 
degree maintained a gospel walk. Thursday, June 20, I had the 
privilege of preaching to them. 

After this, I attended meetings with some appearance of success 
in the towns of New-London, Clarksfield, and Danbury. In the 
latter, a backslider, at the age of seventy, was called to exchange 
worlds. When viewing himself about to go into eternity, he re- 
marked, that although he did not then enjoy religion, he knew he 
once had ; and therefore it was impossible that he should be lost \ 
for he doubted not, that all who had once experienced pardoning 
grace, would be saved. So, quieting his mind thus in his last mo- 
ments, to all human appearance, he left the world without concern. 
In compliance with a request, I preached the funeral sermon. Soon 
after the people had collected, two sons of the deceased entered 
the house. They came to visit their ancient sire, ignorant of the 
sad tale. But disappointment and anguish filled their hearts, and 
their lamentations rendered the scene still more solemn and affect- 
ing. We followed him to the silent tomb, the house appointed for 
all living ; then each went his way, and the mourners returned to 
their habitation, weeping. 

Elder Collins of New York, and myself, appointed a general 
meeting in Milan on the 29th and 30th of June. Brethren attend- 
ed from three small churches, in Milan, Greenfield and Clarks- 
field; which were the only Freewill Baptist churches in this part 
of the country. On the first day, our number was t about twenty ; 
and truly, the form of the Son of God was in our midst, to the 
great joy of our hearts. A Quarterly Meeting was this day or- 
ganized, called Huron Quarterly Meeting. On the Sabbath, about 
one hundred and fifty met in a barn. I spoke to them from Isa. 
33:16, 17 : " He shall dwell on high : his place of defence shall be 
the munitions of rocks" fyc. Being requested to preach again in 
the afternoon, I spoke from Jeremiah 17:11 : "As the partridge sit- 



DAVID MARKS. 79 

tetli on eggs, and hatcheth them not ; so he that getteth riches, and 
not by right, shall leave them in the midst of his clays, and at his 
end shall be a fool/' Elder Collins delivered a discourse from 
Heb. 4:9 : "There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God." 
We then ate the bread, and drank the cup in remembrance of our 
Lord's body that was broken, and his blood that was shed for us. 
Several animating exhortations followed ; many tears were shed ; 
and many, we trust, felt the need of salvation, and went away sor- 
rowful. July 2 and 3, I attended meetings in Milan. The four 
days following were spent at a Methodist camp meeting in Flor- 
ence, Huron county, in which I enjoyed the privilege of preaching 
once from the stand, and of speaking several times at prayer meet- 
ings. During this period some were hopefully converted. Mon- 
day, July 8th, a Methodist brother in Brunswick, kindly lent me a 
horse to go to the south part of the state. I preached during the 
week in Greenfield, Plymouth, Brunswick and Fitchville. In the 
latter place the power of God was among the people. Seventeen 
engaged, by giving me their hands, to commence immediately seek- 
ing the salvation of their souls. A revival followed this meeting, 
in which fifteen or twenty were converted to God. 

Tuesday, July 16, I preached in Greenwich, after which a 
church was organized. In the evening, I spoke to a very attentive 
assembly in Plymouth, ten miles distant ; and the next evening- 
preached in the court house at Mansfield, thirty miles further south. 
The congregation was large and solemn. Thursday and Friday, 
I travelled fifty-five miles to Raccoon, and there attended worship. 
On Saturday, I rode thirty miles to a Methodist camp-meeting. 
Here, I spent three days, and had the privilege of preaching once, 
which was at midnight ; and of exhorting and praying several times. 
Resuming my journey I passed through Chilicothe, thence down 
the Sciota river to Portsmouth, situated on the Ohio river at the 
mouth of the Sciota. 

The country through which I passed was interesting to the stran- 
ger. For two hundred miles it is level and fertile ; and by the 
way, are many large farms in beautiful order. At one place, 
where I called on a farmer, I noticed the largest field of corn that I 
had ever seen, and asked the number of acres it contained ; he re- 
plied, " one hundred and sixteen ;" and remarked that he had two 
hundred acres of corn then growing on his farm ; and that the year 
before, he raised ten thousand bushels. However, this could hard- 
ly be called a " land of brooks and springs," for in general water 
was both scarce and poor. 

On this journey I had an interview with a minister of consider- 
able talents, belonging to a sect who called themselves Separate 
Baptists ; but are denominated by some, Wash Feet Baptists ; be- 



80 MEMOIRS OF 

cause they believe washing the saints' feet to be an ordinance of 
the gospel, and make its omission a bar to communion. He in- 
formed me that they held to free salvation, the freedom of the hu- 
man will, the final 'perseverance of the saints, and what is called 
close communion. I understood there were several churches of 
this connexion, perhaps twenty — several able ministers — and that 
they formerly seceded from the Calvinistic Baptists. 

At Portsmouth, I found Elder Rufus Cheney, who removed 
from New York to this place six or seven years before. He in- 
formed me there were no Freewill Baptists in this region at that 
time ; and that he lived several months, as it were alone, frequently 
preaching, but with little appearance of success. At length he 
saw a powerful revival, in which many learned to sing the sweet 
songs of Zion. Seven first united to take the Scriptures for their 
rule of faith and practice ; their number increased, until it now 
amounted to one hundred and twelve. I spent five days among 
them, preaching the word of the Lord, and enjoyed some good sea- 
sons. 

During my stay in Portsmouth, I sent an appointment across 
the Ohio river, into Kentucky; but when the time came, the boat 
used for crossing the river was absent. The stream, I think, was 
about half a mile wide ; and as I was unwilling to disappoint the 
people, I began to contrive a way to cross ; and going alone down 
the river side, after an hour's labor, I succeeded in getting an old 
canoe from among the flood wood, that had an opening in the bot- 
tom, from end to end, nearly an inch in width. As the water ap- 
peared to be shallow, and the current gentle, I thought, with little 
difficulty, I should soon reach the opposite shore, and accordingly 
set off my little bark. Taking a board for a paddle, and placing 
another across the canoe, I seated myself, when my little vessel, 
sinking in the water, filled within two inches of the top. Thus I 
ventured forward ; but soon found myself in deep, agitated water ; 
and casting my eyes toward the shores, they seemed to be in rapid 
flight. My little bark whirled round and round, and I wished my- 
self on the land, thinking this, perhaps, was an imprudent step. 
Resolving, however, not to despair, I endeavored to gain the Ken- 
tucky shore. After floating down the stream half a mile, I came 
within one or two rods of the bank, where the water was very 
deep and the current swift. A quantity of flood wood was lodged a 
little below me, and I could see no way to avoid falling amongst it ; 
but happily a stick, projecting from the bottom of the river nearly 
to the surface of the water, fastened in the bottom of the canoe, 
and held it. Presently I caught a rail that was floating down the 
stream, and placing one end of it on the canoe, and the other end 
upon a log, walked on it to the shore. A large number, chiefly 



DAVID MARKS. 81 

people of color, assembled, and I felt that Heaven assisted me in 
preaching. Their tears flowed freely, and my soul rejoiced for the 
privilege of pointing Afric's injured sons to the Lamb of God, 
who is able and willing to sanctify their wrongs to their eternal 
good. Several, apparently much affected, came forward for pray- 
er, and promised to seek the Lord. Nearly the whole assembly 
kneeled in time of prayer : and I was informed this was the cus- 
tom of the country. It is indeed but a respectful custom, when 
God is addressed by his creature, little, sinful man. Duty demand- 
ing my immediate return, I obtained assistance in getting my ca- 
noe to the shore, and in preparing a paddle ; and after floating 
down the stream another half mile, reached the opposite shore in 
safety. 

Monday, July 29, proceeding twenty-five miles up the Ohio 
river, I held a meeting in Raccoon. The next day I went twenty- 
five miles to Rutland, and there met brethren Rothburn and Hatch, 
who had been Freewill Baptist preachers in New England sever- 
al years previous to this time. When they came to this country, 
they found Elder Stedman, an influential preacher of their own 
order, happily engaged in the work of the Lord. Elder Stedman 
removed from New England about the year 1805, established sev- 
eral churches, and formed a Quarterly Meeting ; which became so 
large, that it was divided into two, and these two organized a Year- 
ly Meeting. Elders R. and H. became fellow laborers with Elder 
S. in the precious cause of Christ, till the parched ground became 
a pool, and the thirsty land, springs of water. The church was 
nourished by the dews of Heaven, and the wilderness became vocal 
with the praises of Emmanuel. But soon the scene changed. The 
circumstances as related to me were as follows : 

At a session of their Yearly Meeting, one who had been consid- 
ered a father in Zion, came into the assembly, fell on his knees, 
and, to the surprise of all the congregation, confessed, with bursts 
of grief, a crime of which even his most violent enemies had not 
suspected liim to be guilty ; and which, but for this confession, 
might have remained a secret till the Judgment. The assembly 
were astonished ; the hearts of his brethren were broken with 
grief: and even his enemies, who had formerly sought occasion 
against him, now wept profusely, and scarcely a dry face was to 
be seen in the whole assembly. Deep sorrow sat on the counte- 
nance of every friend ; and some of the preachers wept the whole 
night. A little before day, the penitent came to their lodgings, 
kneeled at their bed-side, and after weeping a while, he asked them 
if they could forgive him. They said they could as to personal 
feelings — but still they wept again, for the occasion that had been 
given for the enemies of the cross, to speak reproachfully. The 



82 MEMOIRS OP 

wicked now triumphed ; and among the brethren there was a divis- 
ion ; some thought they should forgive him, and let him retain his 
eldership ; others, though willing to forgive, were of opinion 
that his eldership ought to be taken away. Not far from this 
time, they were visited by several talented preachers from Miami 
and Kentucky, belonging to the sect called " New Lights." The 
Yearly Meeting was in a rocking and tried state. The preachers 
being mostly young, and little used to such trials as now assailed 
them, felt unable to sustain the shock. The visiting preachers pro- 
posed a union with their denomination. The parties held a con- 
ference to learn the existing difference of opinion ; and after, the 
investigation, concluded there was no essential difference, — that 
they should be one people, — and accordingly they united. Some 
of the churches, however, and many individuals in the Yearly 
Meeting, were much dissatisfied ; and for several years would no 
acknowledge the union. 

I preached with them once or twice ; and on Wednesday, July 
81, commenced my return to New York. On Sunday, August 4, 
hearing the New Lights held a camp meeting at Mount Vernon, I 
rode fifteen miles in the morning, and entered the camp ground, a 
stranger to all. My garments were worn nearly to rags — much 
soiled by my late travels in the heat and dust — and I had no change ; 
still I believed duty called me to speak to this people. Having the 
impression that an introduction somewhat singular, would in this 
case render the hearts of the people more accessible, I gave my 
portmanteau to the first man I met, went upon the stand uninvited, 
and took a seat without speaking, or fixing my eyes on any one, 
till the close of a discourse which a preacher was then delivering. 
Then I asked the privilege of addressing the assembly. The 
preachers and people looked at me with apparent suspicion ; and 
after a little hesitation, a minister called for my credentials. As I 
left the stand to search for my portmanteau which contained my let- 
ters, they called me back, and said, that after an intermission of 
half an hour, my request should be granted. As the " New 
Lights" had been much persecuted, I understood some supposed 
me to be a wicked lad, that had been sent by their enemies to im- 
pose on them; but they hoped my attempt to preach would be in- 
strumental of my awakening. The whole assembly watched me 
very closely till I retired for prayer. When the time of intermis- 
sion had expired, even before the people had assembled, I went 
upon the preachers' stand alone, and without ceremony, falling on 
my knees, began to pray. The Spirit made intercession and the 
windows of heaven seemed to be open. When I arose, the peo- 
ple, who were in number about one thousand, stood thick around 
the stand, and many countenances were bathed in tears. A text 



DAVID MARKS. 83 

occurred to my recollection ; Num. 10:29, " We are journeying 
unto the 'place of which the Lord said, Twill give it you : come 
thou with us, and vje will do thee good ; for the Lord hath spoken 
good concerning Israel." In the illustration of this passage, I no- 
ticed the analogy, first, between the house of Jacob and the true 
Israel, or heirs according to promise ; secondly, between Moses, 
the leader of ancient Israel, and Christ, the leader of the true Is- 
rael ; thirdly, between this journey to the promised land, and the 
Christian's journey to the rest promised to the true Israel ; and 
fourthly, the analogy between the good promised by Moses, and 
that which is offered by Christ. The Lord showed me favor, and 
enabled me to speak an hour and a half with great freedom. The 
assembly stood during the whole time, and many were powerfully 
wrought upon by the Spirit ; saints rejoiced, some shouted, and 
tears rolled down the cheeks of hundreds. Some powerful exhor- 
tations were added, and the table of the Lord was spread before 
the assembly. 

Before the meeting closed, which was on Monday morning, sev- 
eral were hopefully converted. During this time, various persons 
put small pieces of money in my hand, which amounted in all to 
ten dollars ; and a merchant gave me cloth and trimmings for a 
pair of pantaloons. O, how kindly has the Lord provided for his 
unprofitable servant ! 

In compliance with the request of a gentleman in Mt. Vernon 
village, I called at his house. His wife met me at the door with 
her face bathed in tears, and giving me her hand she affectionately 
said, " Glory to God, for what I have experienced this morning. I 
was bred in a formal religion, and yesterday went to meeting an 
unbeliever in experimental religion. But while you were speaking 
God sent an arrow to my heart, and from that moment I have felt 
the horrors and pains of hell till this morning ; and, bless the Lord, 
I have just now found peace that is beyond expression." Her hus- 
band was a professor, and we had a season of rejoicing. He in- 
formed me that several in the village proposed making a contribu- 
tion for me. But I felt rich and happy, and after expressing my 
thanks for their kindness, told him I had enough. 

My next meeting was in Jefferson. It commenced in the after- 
noon, and continued till midnight. The power of God was present, 
and eternity seemed unveiled ; several were awakened, some wan- 
derers confessed their backslidings, and the praises of three happy 
converts crowned the interview. 

Wednesday, Aug. 7, I arrived at brother Reynolds' in Bruns- 
wick, Huron county, and returned his horse, which I had rode 
about six hundred miles. He would take no pecuniary reward. 
Pursuing my journey, I attended meetings in Brunswick, Brown- 



84 MEMOIRS OF 

son, Plymouth, Greenwich, Fitchville, Clarksfield, Milan and Port- 
land, sometimes called Sandusky city. In some of these my soul 
was greatly blessed, and the seasons appeared to be profitable to 
the people. 

On Thursday, the 15th, I crossed Sandusky bay and visited a 
small settlement, a few miles from the light-house, where I was de- 
tained in coming to this state. I was informed there had been no 
preaching on the peninsula for more than a year and a half. The 
Lord gave me freedom, and solemnity reigned in our midst. After 
sermon, I began speaking to individuals ; but looking around I per- 
ceived the greater part had left me, and were looking in at 
the doors and windows, where they could hear and avoid being 
spoken to themselves. Some appeared tender, others inflexibly 
hard. I dined in the place, and, as a friend afterward informed 
me, the woman of the house hurried the company while I was 
washing without, to take seats at the table lest I should give 
thanks. 

Friday, I returned to Portland, and waited the arrival of a ves- 
sel to take a passage to Buffalo. The steamboat did not arrive at 
the expected hour, and word soon came that it had suffered in a 
gale of wind, and was laid up for repairs. Information was given 
me, that several had expressed doubts as to the correctness of a re- 
mark made in my late visit, saying, that I never preached written 
sermons. They were suspicious the discourse I delivered to them 
had been committed to memory ; and to prove me, desired that I 
would preach from a text they should give me. I told him they 
might notify a meeting and give me a text as I arose to speak. 
Nearly two hours before the appointed time, Mr. Marsh, keeper of 
the steamboat hotel, sent a note, requesting me to preach from the 
following text : Gal. 3:8, " And the Scripture, foreseeing that God 
would justify the heathen through faith, preached before the gospel 
unto Abraham, saying, In thee shall all nations be blessed." I re- 
tired to a grove, spent a few minutes in prayer, then returned and 
anxiously waited the appointed hour. About all the village assem- 
bled, and after reading my text and making some introductory re- 
marks, I noticed, first, the Scripture promises of the Messiah ; sec- 
ondly, their fulfillment, and the manner in which all nations are 
blessed in the seed of Abraham ; and, thirdly, the faith through 
ivhich the heathen are justified. The fear of man was removed, 
and my soul led out into the deep things of God. The awakening 
influence of the Holy Spirit was manifest in the assembly, and 
many faces were bedewed with tears. Mr. Marsh, with two or three 
others, made me a present of nearly three dollars. 

Aug. 17, finding no opportuni y for a passage on the lake, and 
hearing that on Tuesday following, a vessel was to go from Cleave- 



DAVID MARKS. 85 

land, a port sixty miles distant, I left Portland at the setting of the 
sun, with my portmanteau on my shoulder, and in a day and a half 
walked to Cleaveland, when to my disappointment I found the ves- 
sel had sailed an hour before my arrival. After walking thirty- 
seven miles from Portland, on the beach of the lake, sinking much 
of the way to my ankles in the sand, a stranger overtook me, who 
said he had heard me preach, and offered to carry my portmanteau 
to Cleaveland. It contained my money, watch, and other articles 
to the amount of $40. My weariness made me gladly accept his 
offer. During my haste in the latter part of this journey, I had 
not allowed myself time to eat, and the cravings of my hunger 
were now severe. As I could find nothing of the man with my 
portmanteau, neither could procure any thing to eat, I went out 
from the town a little distance, sat down by the way side in the 
ram, anxiously watching for the stranger. To my joy he made 
his appearance in about two hours, and with thankfulness I sup- 
plied my wants. 

I tarried in Cleaveland one day, and on Aug. 20th, I set sail in 
the Nicator for Buffalo. We had a fair wind, and a prosperous 
voyage ; but the company were profane and wicked. Thursday, 
I landed at Buffalo, went to Hamburg where I had left my horse? 
and the six days following attended meetings in Hamburg, Eden, 
Boston, Concord, and Ellicottsville. Some of these seasons were 
refreshing. Several, who had been living without God and with- 
out hope in the world, were made to feel their poverty, and desir- 
ed the prayers of Christians in their behalf. After this, I visited 
Elder J. Folsom, of Boston, who was nigh unto death. To me it 
was an impressive and memorable season. Elder F. had been a 
faithful and spiritual watchman. I mourned in the certain expec- 
tation, that soon he would leave the care of Zion ; and as I looked 
upon the companion of his youth, and their numerous family, all my 
sympathies were awakened. His soul was happy, and he rejoiced 
in God. With the firm and blessed hope of meeting him in the 
land of immortality and eternal bliss, I pressed his pallid hand, and 
bade him adieu.* 

From Boston I went to Attica, where the second session of the 
Holland Purchase Y. M. commenced on the 31st of August, 1822. 
Several discourses were delivered, and followed by animating ex- 
hortations. A comfortable season was enjoyed, but nothing special 
occurred. In Elders' conference, a resolve was passed, advising 
our preachers and brethren not to connect with masonic lodges. I 

* A few months after this, Elder Folsom left the world in the triumphs of that faith he 
had so often recommended to others, His funeral sermon was preached by Elder R. 
Carey, one of his spiritual children. His death was lamented by hundreds of the church 
of Christ, but they mourned not as those without hope. 



86 MEMOIRS OF 

did not vote for this resolve with the conference, because one of 
our preacher.-, whom I thought one of the best, was a free mason; 
and I concluded if masonry was not good he would come out from 
it. 

After the close of the Yearly Meeting, I continued my journey 
toward Junius, and on the way preached once in Covington, thrice 
in Richmond, once in Gorham, thrice in Benton, twice in Milo, 
and attended eight meetings in Wayne. The Lord blessed some 
of these season- with his presence ; and I trust some fruits of the 
same will appear in the day of eternity. In Milo, many seemed 
resolved to submit to Jesus, and several desired the prayers of 
saints. 

On Monday, Sept. 9, T arrived at my father's dwelling, but found 
it empty. My father was absent on a visit to his relatives in Con- 
necticut, and my two eldest brothers were living in an adjacent 
neighborhood. As there was no friend to welcome my return, I 
walked out over the places that had been familiar to me, to indulge 
the solitude of my feelings, and reflect upon the changing scenes of 
time. Here was the place where I mourned my w r retched state, 
when unreconciled to God. There, beneath the shade of that wood, 
I supplicated Heaven's mercy; and there despaired, fearing my 
day of grace was over, and my state unalterably fixed. But O the 
change, since that distressing hour ! Bless the Lord, that my soul 
eter experienced it. Here, when the * wo' was laid on me if I 
preached not the gospel, I w r alked on the banks of this little riv- 
ulet, and wept, saying, u Lord, I am a child, how can I go ?" There, 
while on my knees, beneath the boughs of that white-wood tree, I 
resolved to obey the Lord, and be an exile and a wanderer in the 
earth to preach the gospel of Christ. Here stood the dwelling in 
which I bowed, on the morning of my departure, with my parents, 
Bister and brothers, and for the last time, heard my dear mother's 
voice lifted to God in prayer. Here my mother, trembling, gave 
the parting hand, while the tears that rolled down her cheek, be- 
spoke the parting severe. Now she is gone — that bosom is heaved 
by affliction no more. As for myself, I am an exile ; still but a 
child of sixteen — strewing my tears from place to place — wearing 
out my life, and exposing myself to a premature death for the wel- 
fare of my fellow mortals — who for this, often aim the vile weapons 
of slander and detraction. Often I lack the necessaries of life — 
but immediately something wdiispered, ' Hush, David. Shall mor- 
tal man complain ? Thou hast received thy pension, a hundred 
fold in this life, with persecution, which is a part of thy salary; 
therefore thou art blessed. Cast thine eyes above, there thou hast 
an Almighty Friend ; there is thy inheritance and thy treasure. 
And as thy day is, shall thy strength* be." Peace flowed into my 






DAVID MARKS. 87 

soul., and I exclaim el. "Lord 3 kywffl, not mine, be done 

Help me in patience to possess my soul, and make me useful in 
thv vineyard, the little time thou shalt allot to me in this vale of 
. in death's cold arms I fall, though it he in some dis- 
tant land, far from my native soil, he thou my friend, and accom- 
pany me through the gloomy vale. May my flesh rest in hope, 
and in the morning of the resurrection, have an entrance into the 
ial city, where thy soft hand shall wipe away all tears, thy 
children he united in one. and with their harps all tuned, sing that 
song which never ends." 



CHAPTER IX. 



A Journey to Connecticut. — Another to Upper Canada.; and the 
particulars of my travels, to the aye of seventeen years. 

From the commencement of my travels I had often wished to 
visit my relatives in Connecticut, and according to the grace given 
me, preach the gospel in that section also. Now the long desired 
opportunity presented, and I concluded, after visiting my brothers, 
and preaching in Junius, to depart immediately. Saturday and 
Sabbath, Sept. 14 and 15, I attended three meetings in Galen, and 
had the satisfaction of seeing one that had heen awakened in my 
last meeting in this place, now rejoicing in God. O, the value of 
one soul. The next day. after riding forty miles, I preached a dull 
sermon. The day following, I reached Brookh'eld, and was wel- 
comed by my friends with expressions of siirprise and gladness, — 
for having heard that I had heen assassinated, they expected to 
see my face no more. I attended three meetings with them, in 
which we were blessed with the smiles of the Savior. On Friday, 
I rode thirty miles through the rain to Cherry Valley, and appoint- 
ed a meeting in the evening at the academy. Many of the villa- 
gers, excited by curiosity, came out to hear the - little stranyer ;" 
and by the weeping of some, and the seriousness of all. it seemed 
that good was done. Saturday, after travelling forty miles, I again 
found myself nearly destitute of money. My supper was given 
me, and in the morning I paid my last money for the night's lodg- 
ing, and left a vest as security for my horse-keeping, till my re- 
turn. Proceeding on rny way twenty miles to Greenville, I saw a 
congregation coming out of a school house, and was impressed to 
kneel on the green and pray. This I did, and found access to the 



88 MEMOIRS OF 

throne of grace. The people soliciting an appointment, I stopped 
the afternoon, and preached to several hundreds. The Lord open- 
ed the hearts of some, and they communicated about three dollars. 
Thus did kind Heaven again supply my necessities. Monday, I 
crossed the North river at Hudson, and preached at a tavern in 
Egremont, Mass. A young man of the family manifested a desire 
to seek an interest in the dear Redeemer. They kindly gave me 
entertainment, and in the morning, after praying with them, I left 
them in tears. 

At evening, I came to the dwelling of my grandfather Marks 
in Burlington. As both he and my uncle Marks were of the Epis- 
copah church, but myself a member of a dissenting, consequently 
an unpopular order, I had prepared my mind for a cold reception. 
But in this I was happily disappointed ; they received me affec- 
tionately, gave me much good instruction and wise counsel, exhort- 
ed me to be humble and faithful, and discharge my duty in the fear 
of the Lord. I found my grandfather to be a man of experience 
in the things of God, and possessed of that charity which suffereth 
long. He despised a profession without experimental religion, a 
form without the power of godliness, and a ministry without holi- 
ness of heart and communion with God. My uncle also was as a 
father in the gospel to me, and time passed pleasantly in the socie- 
ty of his family. Ten years had elapsed since I had seen these 
kind relatives, and now the privilege of visiting them and the pla- 
ces of my early childhood, which time had almost obliterated from 
my memory, was sweet to my soul. 

I visited the grave-yard in Plymouth, and beginning to search 
among the white marbles for my brother Jeremiah's grave, soon 
espied his name on a white stone at the head of a little mound y 
and, with much emotion, read the following lines, which the pass- 
ing years had erased from my memory : 

" Short was my life, and sweet the date — 
I called the Savior at the gate; 
And sweetly did resign my breath 
Into the hands of cruel death." 

His good advice and pious warnings, with his dying words, " / 

fear David will run a wicked race? were remembered. Ah ! 

thought I, if he were now alive he would rejoice and be glad for 
the great things the Lord has done for me ; God has answered his 
fervent prayers, and converted my soul. I gazed upon his grave, 
and almost coveted his repose, saying in my heart, if faithful to my 
calling, when I have wandered a few more days to persuade sin- 
ners to be reconciled to God, my latter end, like thine, shall be 
peace ; like thee, I shall rest from my labors, and my works fol- 
low. Leaving his peaceful grave, I went to Southington, where 



DAVID MARKS. 89 

my grandfather Merriman formerly lived, and whither my parents 
had often taken me when a child. But both my grandfather and 
his companion, were gone ' the way of all the earth.' Some of my 
uncles and other relatives also, were no more. All seemed so des- 
olate, that after staying the night with a brother of my mother, I 
went to Middletown, and visited Elder Josiah Graves. He mar- 
ried a sister of my mother, and from him and his family I met with 
a very affectionate reception. 

Elder Graves had been a member of the Calvinistic Baptist 
church, and a preacher of good report in that denomination sixteen 
years. Then, from a critical examination of the Scriptures, he 
changed his sentiments, and boldly preached the doctrine of free 
salvation and free communion. For this he was viewed as one 
that had departed from the faith of the gospel, and was excluded 
from the fellowship of the church. Several of its members imme- 
diately seceded, and with him were organized into a church, calling 
themselves Free-will Baptists, Hitherto they had neither known 
our denomination or sentiments ; still I found their doctrine and 
practice were the same that are held by the Free-will Baptists. I 
enjoyed the privilege of preaching with them, and Elder Graves 
remarked he had not before heard his own sentiments fully preach- 
ed by another. I had the satisfaction of introducing to them our 
religious periodical, [Religious Informer,] and by this medium they 
became known to the denomination, and soon after joined the Rhode 
Island Quarterly Meeting. After visiting an only sister of my 
father in Hartford, I went to Berlin, and preached in the rain to a 
small congregation in the street. Some good appearances were 
visible. The next day I held a meeting in Southington. Sunday, 
Sept, 29, I attended meetings in Southington, Bristol, Plymouth, 
and Burlington, and the day following preached at the house of my 
grandfather. Here I had the satisfaction of meeting my father, 
but enjoyed only a short interview with him, as a chain of appoint- 
ments, extending about three hundred miles to the west, now made 
it my duty to leave. 

On Thursday, bidding my father and kind relatives farewell, I 
proceeded to AYinstead, and attended worship in the evening. The 
next day, after travelling thirty-seven miles, I spoke with much 
freedom to a congregation in Egremont, Mass., and at evening held 
a meeting near the city of Hudson. The assembly was large and 
solemn, and by some, I trust, this season will be gladly remember- 
ed in eternity. The next day I crossed the Hudson, and preached 
to about two hundred people in the Christian meeting house at 
Greenville. Here a collection of five dollars was given me. Hav- 
ing an appointment at ten o'clock the next morning, twenty miles 
distant, I took my leave of the kind people, after nine in the even- 
8* 



£K> MEMOIRS OF 

ing, and walked the greater part of nine miles. In the morning I 
reached the appointment, and preached from 1 Cor. 13:4 — 8. The 
Spirit of God was manifested in a special manner. One was pow- 
erfully wrought upon and fell, upon which the people were alarm- 
ed, and broke the order of the meeting. I was obliged to leave 
them in haste, as it was but little more than an hour to my next 
appointment which was ten miles distant. I found a crowded as- 
sembly, and felt that the Lord gave me utterance in speaking to 
them. Many appeared to be deeply exercised and wept, but some 
publicly opposed. After the meeting, a stranger gave me a dollar, 
and wished me success in the cause of truth ; and I left the place 
rejoicing in God, who had favored me with much of his Holy Spir- 
it. At evening I preached in Sharon to a very large assembly 
that heard with attention. 

Monday I rode five miles, and at sunrise preached to about forty 
people in a field ; then went to Springfield and spoke to about two 
hundred in the Baptist meeting house. It was a time of much so- 
lemnity. My soul was happy, and I felt to praise the Lord in the 
congregation. O, the stupidity of men ! who neglect to honor God 
and call upon his great name. Alas ! how indifferent are thousands ; 
yes, the greater part of the world, notwithstanding eternity is de- 
pending on the passing moments. I rode twenty-two miles to 
Plainfield, and preached in the evening. Until this time, I had 
travelled on foot or on horseback, and often with great weariness. 
A friend here kindly offered to sell me a light wagon for thirty- 
five dollars, provided I could pay twelve dollars now, and the win- 
ter following send the remainder by mail. I thanked the Lord for 
this opportunity, accepted the offer, and was enabled to meet my 
engagement. The next day I attended meeting in the afternoon 
at the west part of the town, and another at Hamilton Seminary; 
the day following I travelled thirty miles and preached in Cazano- 
via, Pompey, and Manlius. Thursday, I rode thirty-five miles and 
attended two meetings, which were truly seasons of refreshing. 
The next day I preached in Junius, at the house of Major Cham- 
berlain, who was in a low state of health. He professed no religion, 
but was under serious exercises of mind and requested me to pray 
for him. When we parted he left a dollar in my hand. 

Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 12 and 13, the Benton Q. M. was 
held in Benton. We were favored with the Divine presence, and 
our hearts were made glad in the Lord. In the Elders' confer- 
ence on Monday, much union existed, and the business of the meet- 
ing was transacted in the fear of God. 

On Tuesday, I attended a meeting in Phelps, and the Holy Spir- 
it seemed deeply to touch the hearts of some. After this I went 
ninety miles to Bethany, where the Bethany quarterly meeting 



DAVID MARKS. 91 

opened on the -20th of the month. The weather was extremely un- 
pleasant, yet several assembled, and the preaching was in the pow- 
er and demonstration of the Spirit. Our hearts were warmed with 
heavenly love, and many went away rejoicing in the God of their 
salvation. After meeting, I went to Black Rock, and crossed the 
Niagara river into Upper Canada. Proceeding a few miles down 
the river, I took an active part in a Methodist prayer meeting. A 
brother desired to know why I came into this section to preach, 
rather than stay and preach within the circle of my acquaintance. 
I replied, that if God had given me a mission, it was not to stay 
and preach; but, according to Mark 16:15, to " Go and preach;" 
and that duty led me to travel, as the apostles and the blessed 
Jesus did, to publish the glad tidings of salvation to all classes of 
men ; so that hearing the truth from various witnesses, some might 
thereby be saved. 

Friday, Oct. 25, I walked twenty-two miles to see the cataract 
of Niagara. I descended a spiral staircase of one hundred steps ; 
then casting my eyes upward, beheld the rocks towering one hun- 
dred and fifty feet above my head, while immense volumes of water 
poured from this height in awful majesty. These circumstances, 
together with the continued roar of the water falling into the awful 
gulf beneath, and then passing along in dreadful agitation — the 
trembling of the earth around the cataract — the rising spray, with 
the attending rainbow — united to form a scene more sublime and 
impressive, than any I had ever witnessed. Stupid must be the 
mind that can view such a wonder without being led to adore its 
Divine Author. On this occasion my heart adopted the language 
of the inspired penman, " Who is like unto thee, Lord, among 
the gods ! who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearfid in praises, 
doing wonders J 9 " The heavens declare thy glory, and the firma- 
ment showeth thy handy work. Day unto day utter eth speech, and 
night unto night showeth knowledge" 

While beholding the constant motion of the stream, I was forci- 
bly struck with its analogy to man's voyage down the stream of 
time. A few miles above the falls, the river glides gently and un- 
disturbed ; — so the morning of life passes smoothly away. As in a 
little distance, the smooth surface of the water is broken in passing 
over the rocks, and with inconceivable swiftness is finally hurried 
down the tremendous precipice ; — so after a few days, the fair ap- 
pearances of earthly prospects are broken on the rocks of disap- 
pointment, and every passing moment hastens the living to that 
dread precipice, whence they must launch into eternity. Still, 
while the sons of vanity know this, they sport and amuse them- 
selves with that which cannot profit, and that which renders their 
hearts insensible to their dreadful danger. Thus they remain stu- 



92 MEMOIRS OF 

pidly ignorant of the horrid gulf into which, unless they soon awake, 
they will as surely plunge, as the waters of Niagara, in their course, 
plunge down the precipice. Should we not think people beside 
themselves, were we to see them enter a vessel a few miles above 
the falls, suffer it to float with the current, and in the meantime 
waste their hours in sleep, or amuse themselves with frivolous 
reading, dancing, card playing, decking themselves with orna- 
ments, or gorgeous and costly apparel, till they should find their 
bark leaving the gentle stream, and hastening with awful speed 
down the irresistible current ? Then in vain they might awake, 
see their helpless state, and cry for assistance ; — in vain might they 
attempt to escape ; — in vain they might turn their eyes from the 
danger ; — in vain might they strive to forget their condition. Noth- 
ing now can save them from the sad and final doom ! Should we 
not pity them ? Should we not, before they are passed beyond the 
reach of help, labor diligently to arouse them from their stupidity; 
to warn them of their danger, and to turn them from their fatal 
course ? Humanity answers, yes. And while men, floating rap- 
idly down the stream of time, must soon launch into eternity — and, 
if not aroused from their insensibility to spiritual things, must sink 
into the burning lake ; shall we labor less diligently for their eter- 
nal welfare — or be less anxious to save them from the far more 
dreadful destruction that awaits them ? Heaven says, no. Rea- 
son and revelation say, no. And conscience approves the decision. 
But, O ! how astonishing the mournful truth — that men are offend- 
ed when we seek their welfare ; when we strive to awaken them 
from fatal stupidity ; and for this, count us enemies, and treat us 
as foes ! 

In the evening, I held a meeting at the little village of St. Da- 
vid's, and after its close, several gentlemen, as they passed out, laid 
some pieces of money on the table before me. The two days fol- 
lowing I spent at a Methodist quarterly meeting in the township 
of Stanford. They received me kindly, and I used the liberty giv- 
en in the gospel. This was a precious season. After the quar- 
terly meeting closed, I preached in the evening at the Methodist 
chapel in Lundy's Lane ; and the next day visited and prayed in 
several families. One of these families consisted of a widow and 
two sons ; and as soon as I began to converse, the sons fled to the 
barn. I followed and prayed with them. They appeared rather 
seriously exercised, yet angry at my perseverance in persuading 
them to be reconciled to God. At 1 o'clock, P. M. I held a meet- 
ing a few miles west of St. David's. The Lord heard the groan- 
ings of his people, and his Spirit reached the hearts of sinners. 
Twelve that were awakened, bowed at the altar of mercy. In the 



DAVID MARKS. 93 

evening I preached at the chapel in Stanford, and the day follow- 
ing in St. David's. 

On Wednesday, I walked thirteen miles through the mud, and 
attended meetings in Queenston and Chippeway : in the latter I 
was much shut up and exceedingly tempted. My trials were so 
severe, that like Peter, I found my faith weak and myself sinking ; 
but the promise that we shall not " be tempted above that we are 
able, but with the temptation shall find way for escape," encourag- 
ed me. I cried unto the Lord, and blessed be his name, he heard 
my cry and delivered me out of trouble. On Thursday, I attended 
two meetings ; in the latter, at Waterloo, the Lord made it a sea- 
son of refreshing to his saints, and of trembling to some sinners. 
The day following, I crossed the Niagara at Black Rock, and 
preached at Hamburg in the evening. On Saturday, I labored un- 
der much indisposition, but was enabled to attend appointments in 
Aurora and Wales. 

Sunday, Nov. 2, I held two meetings in Bennington. At the 
close of the latter, a daughter of a Presbyterian minister came for- 
ward weeping, and asked me to pray for her. I replied, you must 
pray for yourself. She said she could not, and repeating the Scrip- 
ture, " The effectual fervent prayer of the righteous man availeth 
much," again requested my prayers in her behalf. I asked her if 
she was willing to kneel. She said, " Yes ;" and bowed the knee, 
weeping while I prayed for her, as if her heart was broken. Short- 
ly after, she was brought to rejoice in the Redeemer, and united 
with the Presbyterian church. At two o'clock, P. M., I preached 
again in the east part of Bennington, and at evening in the village 
of Attica. These were to me seasons of rejoicing. 



94 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER X. 

My travels and labors in different places ; Revival in Batavia, fyc. 

Monday, Nov. 4, 1822, completed my seventeenth year. As 
the sun arose in splendor, my mind was filled with solemnity, and 
I rejoiced in God the Rock of my salvation, for the great things he 
had done for me. I said in my heart, ' hitherto he hath been my 
helper, and in all my tribulation his right hand hath upheld me.' 
He has soothed every sorrow, and poured heavenly consolation in- 
to my bosom. ' O, my soul, declare his greatness, and his good- 
ness in the congregation of the living; and when death shall call 
thee hence, shout his praises, and speak of his power in that hour 
of trial ; for surely, had not his arm been strong, and his mercy 
great, ere this time thou hadst fallen by the hand of Saul." 

"His worth, if all the nations knew, 
Sure the whole world would love him too." 

Now I covenanted with God to be more faithful in his cause, — 
praying that I might see a more abundant outpouring of his Spir- 
it, and more souls persuaded to turn and live. On this day I went 
to my appointment, four miles north of Batavia village. Brother 
J. Barker received me affectionately ; and being a stranger, I in- 
quired of him the state of the people. He declined giving any in- 
formation, and exhorted me to inquire of the Lord, saying, if he 
had sent me, his Spirit would direct. I found a crowded assembly, 
but had no particular text. In the introductory prayer, I asked 
the Lord to direct me to a subject ; and opening the Bible, the first 
that met my eye was, Proverbs 1:24 — 27, "Because I have called, 
and ye refused ; I have stretched out my hand, and no man re- 
garded ; but ye have set at nought all my counsel, and would none 
of my reproof; I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock 
when your fear cometh. When your fear cometh as desolation, 
and your destruction as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish 
cometh upon you." Believing the Lord had given me this for a 
text, I commenced speaking from it. Within ten minutes an aw- 
ful solemnity rested on the congregation, and every cloud seemed 
to disappear. The place was glorious and awful on account of the 
presence of God. Poor wanderers lamented their backslidings, 
and declared their determinations to return to their first love. Many 
sinners awoke to view their danger and wickedness in forgetting 
God. When the meeting closed, the^ greater part of the youth, 
crowding around in tears, requested prayer, and several kneeled, 






DAVID MARKS. 95 

while I entreated the Lord to have mercy.* This vicinity had 
long been noted for neglect of religion, and though it had been in- 
habited seventeen years, no revival had ever been in the place. 
The faithful servants of God had often visited the people and 
preached repentance, but generally they complained of being much 
Closed in their communications ; and sometimes almost concluded 
the Lord " could there do no mighty work — because of their unbe- 
lief." But now he unexpectedly visited them in mercy. They 
permitted their eyes and ears to be opened, and many dared no 
longer to bolt the Savior from their hearts, lest he should un sheath 
his sword of vengeance against them, and forever forget to be gra- 
cious. O, how fearfully dangerous to reject the calls of the gos- 
pel, and slight its solemn warnings ! 

My mind was again brought into trial in regard to duty. The 
appearances of a revival here, seemed to demand my stay ; but my 
appointments called me one hundred miles to the east ; and having 
purposed returning to Canada, I had also left appointments in that 
province. Under these circumstances, I concluded that it was duty 
to fulfill my engagements. So leaving an appointment to attend on 
my return to Canada, I went on my way November 5, and attend- 
ed meetings in Byron, Ogden, Penfield, Ontario, Williamson, 
Sodus and Lyons. In Sodus, many tears were shed, several were 
awakened, two of whom were soon after brought into the liberty of 
the gospel. 

Sunday, Nov. 10, I preached in Lyons, and the Lord gave me a 
. tongue of utterance. In the afternoon and evening, I held meet- 
ings in Sodus, and the day following walked seventeen miles, and 
attended a meeting one mile east of Rochester. Tuesday, after 
walking thirteen miles to Ogden, and preaching at one o'clock, I 
found myself much fatigued, and unable to walk to my next meet- 
ing, which was at four o'clock, P. M. I entreated my heavenly 
Master to open the heart of some one, to lend me a beast to ride as 
far as Byron. Soon my desire was granted. I attended meeting in 
Bergen, then hastened to Byron, and there had to leave my bor- 
rowed horse about the setting of the sun. It was yet eight miles 
to my appointment in Batavia. And feeling anxious to reach this 
meeting, particularly on account of the encouraging prospect that 
appeared there on my former visit, I endeavored to obtain a 
horse. But all my efforts were ineffectual, till night came on, 
when I met a man with a span of horses, returning from labor. Af- 
ter relating my situation, I asked him for a horse. He replied that 

* Mr. J. Barker writes March 16, 1846, respecting this meeting, "Your husband came 
to my house the day he was seventeen years old, and preached in the evening with won- 
derful power. So great was the effect on the congregation, that his voice was complete- 
ly drowned by the loud cries and sobs of his hearers." [Ed. 



96 MEMOIRS OP 

his beasts had labored hard and eaten nothing since morning, and 
it was folly for me to attempt to reach Batavia that evening. But 
the appointed hour had already come ; I could not reconcile my- 
self to the thought of a failure, and offered five dollars for the use 
of the horse. After feeding the beast half an hour the man con- 
sented, but would take no reward. I reached the appointment at 
about half past seven, and found several hundred people anxiously 
waiting. I enjoyed a favored season, and the heavenly cloud 
seemed, as before, to hang over them. After returning the horse 
in the morning, I borrowed another in Batavia to go to Canada. 
The next day I crossed the Niagara river at Lewiston, attended a 
meeting at the village of St. David's, and the day following preach- 
ed in Thorold, where the Lord lifted upon us the light of his coun- 
tenance. The kind people gave me two dollars. 

Sunday, Nov. 17, having been requested, I preached twice in 
Lewiston. During the first sermon, I felt especially assisted, but 
in the afternoon labored under much trial. I had need to exercise 
faith, and strive to be patient in tribulation, knowing that this 
Christ hath appointed for our good. It is no difficult thing to re- 
joice in the light of God's countenance ; but he who can rejoice 
when the Lord hides his face, has obtained no small victory over 
the world, and boldness in the faith. Yet it is the duty and priv- 
ilege of every Christian to be so established, as to be unmoved 
amidst the most trying seasons of persecution and affliction. In the 
evening, I preached at an inn kept by Mr. H. on the Ridge road. 
One of his daughters then lay a corpse in the house. My mind 
was directed to Matt. 9:18, " My daughter is even now dead, but 
come and lay thy hand upon her and she shall live." I enjoyed a 
highly favored time ; the Spirit of the Lord seemed to touch many 
hearts, and tears fell like drops of rain. Being requested, I at- 
tended the funeral at 10 o'clock the next morning, and had reason 
to hope that this meeting, as well as the previous one, will be joy- 
fully remembered in the great day of accounts. Mr. H. with sev- 
eral others, gave me five dollars. 

In the evening I preached at Royalton to an attentive assembly ; 
the next morning to a few in the east part of the town, and then 
proceeded to my appointment at Batavia. A large congregation 
was present, and kind Heaven aided me in dispensing the word of 
life. Though none had as yet been converted, the prospect of re- 
vival was more promising than ever. Several were heavy laden 
with a sense of their iniquities, and anxiously inquiring the way to 
Zion. A door seemed to open so effectually for preaching the word 
in a place that had never before received the Savior, that I thought 
it duty to make no more appointments at present, which would in- 
fringe on any opportunity for usefulness in this vicinity. Wednes- 






DAVID MARKS. 97 

day, Nov. 20, I visited and prayed with fifteen families, and found 
several among the number seeking Jesus sorrowing. In the even- 
ing, I held a meeting at a place called Sodom, which I understood 
was so named on account of the wickedness of the people. The 
next day I visited from house to house, striving with tears to per- 
suade the inhabitants to flee from the storm of wrath that awaits 
the ungodly, and seek for refuge in the " sinner's Friend." In the 
evening we held a meeting on the town line, and enjoyed a profit- 
able time. Backsliders took words and returned to the Lord. At 
the close eight or ten came forward and kneeled, while their tears 
and sighs manifested a deep concern for their eternal welfare. 

On Friday, I visited several families, held one meeting in Staf- 
ford, and another in Le Roy, where the Lord gave me a tongue of 
utterance. Great solemnity rested on the people, and many trem- 
bled under the mighty power of God. Several were awakened, 
and shortly after I learned that fourteen of the number had ex- 
perienced a change of heart, and were happy in the Redeemer. O 
blessed be the Lord, for his wonderful works among the children 
of men. 

Saturday, we met in Batavia for a conference. Several related 
their exercises of mind, some expressed their desires for salvation, 
and entreated an interest in the prayers of the saints. Sunday, 
Nov. 24, early in the morning the house of worship was filled to 
overflowing. In the former part of the day my mind was direct- 
ed to 2 Kings 7:3, 4, " And there were* four leprous men at the 
entering in of the gate, and they said one to another, Why sit we 
here until we die ? If we say we will enter into the city, then the 
famine is in the city, and we shall die there ; and if we sit here we 
die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the 
Syrians ; if they save us alive we shall live, and if they kill us we 
shall but die." In the afternoon, my text was, Heb. 11:24, 25, 26, 
" By faith Moses, when he was come to years, refused to be called 
the son of Pharoah's daughter, choosing rather to suffer affliction 
with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a 
season ; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the 
treasures in Egypt, for he had respect unto the recompense of the 
reward." It was a heart searching time among sinners, and attend- 
ed with some new cases of awakening. At evening I held anoth- 
er meeting in the same place. The Spirit of the Lord was power- 
fully manifested, and the sighs of heavy laden souls were heard in 
every part of the assembly. The cries, " Lord have mercy /" and 
" Pray for me !" saluted our ears from some of the most respecta- 
ble young people in the place. Twenty-five came forward and 
kneeled while prayer was offered in their behalf. Truly, the tall 
9 






98 MEMOIRS OF 

oaks of Bashan were made to bow before the God who ruleth in 
the army of heaven, and among the inhabitants of the earth. 

On Tuesday, in the same place, I spoke with much freedom 
nearly two hours, from 1 Cor. 9:16. "For necessity is laid upon 
me ; yea, wo is unto me if I preach not the gospel !" After ser- 
mon, forty-one spoke, twelve of whom were seeking the Lord sor- 
rowing ; while cries and sobs were heard in almost every part of 
the assembly. Among those who spoke, were several that had 
never before said anything publicly on the subject of religion. 
They now freely confessed their sins, related the exercises of their 
minds since their awakening, and declared their resolutions to re- 
form and turn to Jesus. Several were soon brought to rejoice, and 
they praised the Lord aloud. At the close of the meeting thirty, 
firmly fixed on seeking heavenly joys, came forward and kneeled 
at the altar of mercy. While I beheld the proud youth, who had 
been forgetful of the Savior that all their miseries bore, come for- 
ward weeping and crying to God for mercy, my heart was greatly 
affected and my feelings almost overpowered me. Yet, I rejoic- 
ed in hope of their deliverance from sin, and soon was glad to find 
six happy converts united in exhorting their mourning associates 
not to despair, but to look earnestly to the Lord for salvation. The 
day following I held a meeting on the town line of Batavia and 
Stafford, in which one cried for mercy, and soon professed to find 
pardon through the " Son of the blessed." On Thursday I preach- 
ed again in the revival, after which about twenty spoke of the 
goodness of God. 

Sunday, Dec. 1, we met again for worship, and as usual, enjoy- 
ed a blessed season. Since our last meeting another had been 
converted, who now gave a good testimony. Some heavy laden 
souls were almost in a despairing state, yet we rejoiced to hear 
them say they were resolved to continue seeking the grace of God, 
and if they perished, to die pleading for mercy. My heart was 
glad in the Lord, and my soul was comforted by the light of his 
countenance. 

On Monday, Elder came into the place. This was the 

preacher, who, previous to my journey to Ohio, thought me not in 
the way of duty, and who told me that either he or I had not the 
Spirit of Christ. (See page 73.) Now on hearing of the revi- 
val, he was filled with great joy. For in time past, he had been 
greatly bound in spirit while preaching to this people, and had 
viewed them as almost forsaken of the Lord. Till this time he 
had appeared unfavorably disposed toward my course. Now when 
he witnessed the grace of God, he fell on his knees, confessed his 
past feelings, and thanked the Lord for what his ears had heard. 
He affectionately bid me " God speed/' and to this day our heart 






DAVID MARKS. 99 

has been like the heart of David and Jonathan. He held a meet- 
ing with us and enjoyed a blessed season. 

As I had appointments leading nearly two hundred miles east- 
ward, I was now, for a time, under the necessity of leaving. This 
was very trying and painful to me ; for the minds of many were 
much exercised, and some were almost in despair, and great- 
ly needed encouragement. But wishing to meet my engage- 
ments, I committed them to the care of the great Physician, 
and took my leave. The winter had now become very cold ; 
still I had no over garment, and my clothes being worn con- 
siderably thin I had suffered much from the severity of the weath- 
er. Haying frequently spoken to crowded assemblies till in a state 
of profuse perspiration, and then exposed myself to the evening 
air, I had taken several violent colds which had greatly impaired 
my health. The Lord now opened the heart of a brother in Ba- 
tavia to give me a great coat, which, though more than half worn, 
made me very comfortable. 

Sunday, Dec. 8, 1 preached in Lyons ; my health failed and for- 
bade the immediate performance of my journey. I had yet sev- 
enteen appointments; and after resting one day I went to Junius, 
hoping to be able to attend them. But finding myself unable to 
travel and meet my engagements, I was compelled to abandon the 
design. Some of these appointments I withdrew by letter ; still 
there remained a larger number of congregations than I had ever 
before disappointed. I could only pray, that they might be favor- 
ed with the Divine presence. After staying a short time till my 
health would permit me to travel, I returned to Batavia. My 
friends welcomed me affectionately, and I rejoiced to find that dur- 
ing my absence some had obtained a hope in Jesus, and were now 
happy in that love that passeth understanding. From the 17th of 
Dec. to the close of the month, I continued in the vicinity of the 
revival ; but as my health was not yet restored I held but five 
meetings in a week. The work continued without abatement, and 
some of the converts were strong in the faith. Some who were 
near a despairing state when I left the place, were now happy in 
the Lord ; and by their spiritual exhortations contributed much to 
the spread of the work. Our congregations were large ; the Lord 
often spread his banner over us — we sat under his shadow with 
great delight, and his fruit was sweet to our taste. Opposition and 
persecution showed their deformed heads at times, yet not more 
than is usual when God pours out his Spirit ; for it may be justly 
doubted whether a revival of pure religion ever passed without 
more or less opposition from the ungodly. When the Lord revives 
his work, the adversary rages ; and when the sons of God meet 
together, as in the days of Job, satan comes also. 



100 MEMOIRS OF 

On the first day of the year 1823, I preached from Lev. 25:10 : 
Heaven smiled upon us, and many remarked that it was by far the 
happiest New Year's day they had ever seen. In the evening the 
Lord enabled me to speak with much freedom to an assembly in 
Elba; after which seventy-two spoke of the exercises of their 
minds. Among this number were several converts who had re- 
ceived tickets soliciting their attendance at a ball in the village of 
Batavia, where the thoughtless gay were to waste the first evening of 
the new year. Many covenanted to spend this year in humble obe- 
dience to the Lord. Between ten and eleven the exercises closed, 
and scores went away " rejoicing with joy unspeakable and full of 
glory ;" while others weighed down under a sense of their lost con- 
dition went to their homes in sadness. 

After a few weeks' absence in attendance upon the Benton and 
Bethany quarterly meetings, I returned to Batavia, and heard the sol- 
emn tidings that one of the happy converts, a young woman, had 
gone suddenly to her eternal home. She was brought to rejoice but a 
few days before my departure, and at that time enjoyed health and 
the prospect of long life. Soon after the attack of her disease, 
she was sensible her days on earth were nearly concluded ; but 
amid this expectation, the religion she had lately embraced, buoy- 
ed up her spirit ; and when passing through the valley and shad- 
ow of death, she rejoiced in hope of immortality. While we saw 
her empty seat, we wept for our loss, but rejoiced in the consoling 
belief that she had made a happy exchange, and joined the blood- 
washed throng. 

During the two succeeding weeks I labored in the revival, and 
held eight meetings in adjacent towns. 

During the revival at Batavia, an individual from Riga who 
was on a visit to this place, was touched by the preaching of the 
word, and after returning home was soon converted. By this 
means I was invited to Riga, and sent an appointment. February 
11, I attended two meetings in that town, hi which the power of 
the Lord was manifested, particularly in the last. Several appear- 
ed deeply convicted of their danger without an interest in the Sa- 
vior, and confessed their resolves to turn to the Lord. I left them 
in tears, believing that some of them were nigh the kingdom. 
Nor was my faith vain, for soon after, as I was informed, five or 
six found Jesus to be precious to their souls. 

Feb. 14, facing a tedious storm, I walked to Byron, and spoke 
to a few from Dan. 5:25 : " Mene, Mene, Tekel, LFpharsin" Sat- 
urday morning, the snow having fallen nearly two feet in depth, a 
friend kindly sent his son to carry me three miles. I then walked 
a mile and a half, when my strength failed. It was now the mid- 
dle of the day, the road yet unbroken ; and as it was impossible to 



DAVID MARKS. 101 

reach my appointments, I tarried over the Sabbath and attended a 
meeting. Monday, I returned to Elba and Batavia and attended 
two meetings. In the latter, the converts gave many excellent 
and weighty exhortations, which greatly cheered my heart. 

Feb. 21, I went to the south part of Le Roy, and preached from 
1 Chron. 9:17 — 19. The Spirit of God was manifested in the meet- 
ing with great power, and weeping and lamentation were heard in 
every part of the assembly. My heart was made glad at the close, 
when thirty awakened souls came forward, desiring the prayers of 
the saints. A revival followed this meeting. 

Sunday, Feb. 23, I preached again in Batavia, and at evening 
held what some would call an " open class meeting" Though we 
met with some opposition from the irreligious, we were encouraged 
and made strong by the smiles of our Master — by the Mighty God 
of Jacob. The day following I preached in Stafford, and on Wednes- 
day attended two meetings in Le Roy. The latter of these was 
in the south part of the tow^n, where on my former visit, thirty 
came forward for prayer. The assembly was large, attentive and 
solemn ; twenty promised to seek the Lord, and gave me their 
hands in token of their covenant. Soon after I was informed that 
nearly all of this number, and some others, had professed to pass 
from death unto life. 

Friday, I went to Stafford, where I had an appointment ; but on 
account of illness was unable to attend it. The next day, feeling 
a little better, I walked to Batavia and preached in the evening. 
Sunday, March 2, though still laboring under much infirmity of 
body, I went to the south part of the town and heard a Universal- 
ist preach on a funeral occasion. This man was learned and elo- 
quent, and in many instances had been successful in persuading the 
wicked that it should be well with them, even though they should 
die by drunkenness, by the violence of their own hand, or on the 
gallows. His text was, Eccl. 12:7 : "Then shall the dust return 
to the earth as it was ; and the spirit shall return unto God who 
gave it." In the latter part of his discourse, he stated there was 
not a passage in the Bible, which said, after the spirit had once left 
the body and gone to God, that it should ever depart. Upon this, 
the query arose in my mind, whether he would not find himself to 
be one of those, who, having taken from the words of the prophesy of 
the book of God, shall have their part taken out of the book of life. (See 
Rev. 22:19.) For says Christ, when speaking of that awful day 
in which he shall gather all nations before him, " These" (the wick- 
ed) " shall go away into everlasting punishment." Matt. 25:46. 
"Depart from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire." Matt. 25:41. 
According to Universalism, the wicked shall not depart ; but ac- 
cording to Christ, they shall depart. Which shall we believe? ! how 
9* 



102 MEMOIRS OF 

many of the unsuspecting youth are caught in this fatal snare, and 
make this a substitute for repentance and faith in Christ ! 

March 6, I rode forty miles to Buffalo, and about sunset, called 
on a family that professed to be followers of Christ. When I 
preached here eighteen months before, they kindly entertained me, 
and invited me to call again. I now called and desired to leave 
an appointment — but they told me, as the people were well inform- 
ed, and pretty particular, they would not receive the word from one 
of my age, ability, and information ; so I started immediately for 
Hamburg, with a young brother who had accompanied me from 
Batavia. Ten miles of our road lay through an Indian reservation 
that was uninhabited, except by Indians. When we were about 
half way through this wood, it being very dark, we missed our way 
and followed an Indian trail three miles before we discovered our 
mistake. We found some of the natives who had lain down for 
the night, and from them obtained directions for our return. When 
within half a mile of the road we had left, my horse started and 
ran down a steep hill with such violence, that coming in contact 
with a bass-wood tree, one thill of the sleigh stuck like an arrow 
fast in the tree, while the other, breaking, hung in the harness, and 
the horse left the sleigh. It was then about 1 1 o'clock in the even- 
ing, and we were six miles from any white inhabitants. We cut 
a bridle into strings, and fastening the traces to the sleigh runners, 
one of us led the horse, the other held the sleigh to prevent it from 
running too fast on descending ground, and thus we arrived at the 
house of a friend in Hamburg about one o'clock, and were kindly 
received. 

Sunday, March 9, I preached in Buffalo, and in the four days 
following, held ten meetings between Buffalo and Batavia. Some 
of the assemblies were large and attentive. Between the 14th and 
25th of March, I attended meetings in Bethany, Attica, Benning- 
ton, and Alexander, and spent the rest of the time preaching in 
Batavia and Elba. 

March 24, as I awoke, Elder Parmenter said to me, " I have 
had a dream,' and I believe it is from the Lord. In my dream I 
went to the house of Moses King in Groveland, and was asked if 
I knew David Marks, the " boy preacher ?" I answered, "Yes ;" to 
which they replied, " he is near by in a swamp, cutting cedar to 
build a house ; and for several days has been waiting for you to 
come and assist him in putting it up.' " He then said, if I would 
go to Groveland, he believed I should there see the work of the 
Lord. This town I had never visited, and did not recollect of hav- 
ing heard even its name. I felt rather inclined to visit the place 
immediately, but made no conclusion till the next morning, when 
Elder P. said to me, " I have dreamed yet another dream ;" which 



DAVID MARKS. 103 

he related as follows : " I was at the house of William Whitman in 
the town of Geneseo, three miles from Moses King's in Grove- 
land, and brother W. asked me the same question that was pro- 
posed to me in my former dream, and received the same answer. 
He further said you had just been there, and was now near by in 
a quarry, hewing stone to build a house, and for some time had 
been impatiently waiting for me to come and help you build it ; al- 
so, that you had that day remarked, if I did not come you should 
come after me." Then said I, the dreams, like those of Pharaoh, are 
" one :" God having shown to his servant " what he is about to do" 
" And for that the dream was doubled ; it is because the thing is- es- 
tablished, by God, and, God ivill shortly bring it to pass" Gen. 
41:25 — 32. This decided my going to Groveland; for I firmly be- 
lieved the Lord would there revive his wx>rk. 

Tuesday, March 25, I preached in the south part of Le Roy, 
and again the next morning. The Spirit of the Lord attended the 
word, and sinners wept. Ten individuals at each meeting spoke 
of their lost condition, and declared their determination to seek Je- 
sus. I left them in tears, and on my way to Groveland, held Aye 
meetings in Riga, which, I trust, through the blessing of God, 
were profitable. In the last meeting, a man who had lived nearly 
seventy years without an interest in Christ, now, for the first time, 
expressed an anxiety to be prepared for the great change he must 
soon meet. I also attended one meeting in Wheatland, and the 
morning after, one professed to receive the pardoning grace of God 
at the house where I spent the night. On Monday, March 31, I 
attended a meeting in Caledonia. Some appeared to be serious, 
others were offended. April 1, I arrived at the house of brother 
Whitman, in Geneseo, and was kindly received in his family. I 
told them I expected immediately to see souls converted in that 
place, but they seemed slow of heart to believe. I appointed a 
meeting at his house in the evening, and spent the afternoon in 
visiting the people. But few attended the meeting ; professors of 
religion were generally in a lukewarm state, and the prospect seem- 
ed not so encouraging as I had hoped to find it. The next day I 
held £i meeting in Groveland, and the prospect here appeared no 
more encouraging than in Geneseo. I determined, however, to 
stay a few days and see whether the Lord would revive his work. 
For five days I held meetings alternately in Groveland and Gen- 
eseo, and employed the leisure hours in conversation and prayer 
among the people. The congregations increased in each town, and 
an increasing solemnity was observed. Yet I had felt disappointed, 
fearing my labor would be in vain, till in the last of these meet- 
ings, the hearts of some began to melt. This encouraging pros- 
pect appeared as " a little cloud like a man's hand ;" and, remem- 



104 MEMOIRS OF 

bering the confidence I felt when coming to the place, that the Lord 
had sent. me, I doubled my diligence, and from the 5th to the 10th 
of April, held one meeting a day in each town. The cloud of 
mercy now hung over the place, and we heard the sound of rain. 
Scores were weeping for their sins ; some backsliders returned with 
tears, and met a welcome reception at their Father's house ; the 
Laodicean Christians began to do their first work, and again to en- 
joy their first love. 

Sunday, April 13, we met for worship at a school house in Gen- 
eseo. A hundred people who were unable to enter the house stood 
without, and all seemed to hear attentively. As the meeting com- 
menced many began to weep ; and in the course of the exercises 
their number increased till near the close of the sermon, when 
about the whole assembly were melted into tenderness. Several 
vented their grief by sighs and groans, and cried to God for mer- 
cy. This interesting interview continued about H\ r e hours, and be- 
fore it closed two or three were hopefully converted. Some re- 
turned weeping, others remained as though loth to leave the place 
till they should find Jesus. A man over forty years of age, who 
was not easily or often moved, wept and trembled on account of 
his sins. He said he had sinned against the true light in which he 
might have walked, and now feared there was no mercy for him, 
and that he never should have strength even to leave the house. 
Soon, however, he gained strength to go to a neighbor's house, and 
in a few days found some comfort; yet he made no public profes- 
sion till about three years afterward, when he joined the church. 
On Thursday I held a meeting in Groveland ; nearly two hundred 
attended, and we had a refreshing season. Five or six, who went 
away heavy laden on Sunday evening, were now praising the Lord ; 
and more than twenty came forward for prayer. 

Continuing my stay in Groveland and Geneseo, we had one, two, 
or three meetings almost every day, and usually some were brought 
into the liberty of the redeemed. 

In one meeting, shortly after it commenced, a young woman be- 
gan to weep aloud, as though indifferent to all around, and contin- 
ued without cessation till the sermon closed ; she then arose and 
said with emotions of poignant grief, " O that I had never been 
born ! Wo is me that I have a being ! for my sins cannot be for- 
given ! Would to God that I had died when a child! and now I 
should have been happy ! O mothers, how can you w^eep for your chil- 
dren that died in infancy !" A deep excitement was noticed through 
the whole assembly, and several fervent prayers were offered up 
to God in behalf of this young woman, and for some others who 
were in great grief, as though the sorrows of death had compassed 
them about. After the assembly was dismissed, the young woman 



DAVID MARKS. 105 

before named passed through the street, weeping like one that now 
felt no interest in what the world might remark. It was truly af- 
fecting to hear her lamentations at the distance of a quarter of 
a mile, while not only those who attended the meeting, but 
those in the houses and fields of a thickly settled neighborhood, 
stood listening till her mournful accents receded and died away 
upon the ear. She went home, and asking forgiveness of her pa- 
rents for neglecting their warnings and counsel to seek the Savior, 
she made a solemn vow neither to eat nor sleep till she knew the 
worst of her condition. Two days and a half she passed thus, 
mostly alone, bewailing her state day and night. She was sitting 
pensive by a small stream in a solitary wood, when suddenly its in- 
nocent murmur assumed a pleasant sound. She looked into the 
water — it was beautiful. She turned her eyes upward — the leaf- 
less trees were bright and praised God. She exclaimed, " Glory 
to the Lord!" and returning to her parents, told them Jesus had 
pardoned her sins. She came to the next meeting, and the mo- 
ment she entered, several with myself were confident from her 
countenance, that she had found peace in believing, though we had 
heard nothing of any change. She declared what great things the 
Lord had done for her soul, and her testimony was like a sharp 
sword. 

On Monday, May 5, I left Groveland to attend the Benton quar- 
terly meeting, which opened at the Presbyterian meeting house in 
Brutus on the 10th. 

Previous to my leaving, several of the converts requested an 
opportunity of being baptized. They had never seen any immers- 
ed, nor had any one preached to them on this subject since the re- 
vival. I told them that I could not baptize, and as there was no 
church of Free-will Baptists in this town, they might do well to 
find a home with the Methodists. They replied they could not do 
this, for some of them had been sprinkled, and now they believed 
it was their duty to be baptized. In accordance with their re- 
quest, I had solicited Elder Norton, a stranger to them, to come 
and see the work and baptize. On Wednesday and Thursday, 
brother Norton preached in Groveland much to the satisfaction of 
the people, and six or seven related their experience for baptism. 
We went down to Conesus lake, about half a mile distant. The 
day was pleasant, the water clear and beautiful, and the earth ar- 
rayed in all the beauties of May. The converts hi heavenly 
smiles stood on the shore, while the spectators lined the bank. 
Here I felt the warm breezes of heaven on my soul, and could 
scarcely refrain from crying, " Glory to God in the highest." When 
seven had come out of the water praising 'God, a young man of re- 



106 MEMOIRS OF 

spectability came forward, related his experience, and was bap- 
tized. 

A few days previous to this, a letter had been sent to Elder 
Hinkley of Parma, requesting him to come to Groveland to preach 
and baptize. Three days after the first baptism, brother H. came, 
accompanied by two brethren. He preached on the Sabbath ; sev- 
en more related their experience and were baptized. On Thurs- 
day, I proposed to a young lady in despair to fast two days, pray- 
ing ten times in each for the salvation of her soul. To this we 
both agreed, and I went immediately to the Bethany quarterly 
meeting, held on the town line of Batavia and Elba. Saturday, 
May 24, my two days of abstinence closed. I was quite hungry, but 
had two sources of satisfaction ; one, that by fasting, my mind was 
more clear, more fervent in prayer, approaching nearer to God ; 
the other was, a witness that the young woman had been brought 
into liberty. On this day the quarterly meeting commenced, and 
through the whole we had a comfortable season. On my return to 
Geneseo, I found that the young woman who covenanted to fast, 
had obtained a hope in the Savior several hours before the two 
days expired. Now she was happy ; and looking back to the time 
when she with a mournful heart made this vow, and viewing the 
blessed contrast in her state, her joy was full. 

May 31, 1823, Elders Parmenter and Norton, with some others, 
attended as a council from the quarterly meeting, and organized a 
church of seventeen members. One was added the same day, and 
the day following three were received upon baptism. 

June 5, I attended a meeting in Livonia, and after the sermon 
proposed leaving another appointment. A professor of religion 
objected — and stated to the assembly that he once heard me say, 
when speaking publicly of my leaving home, that I had left the 
care of herds and flocks to seek the welfare of souls ; but he had 
been informed that my father was a poor man, and had neither 
flocks nor herds. He also said further — " He says he is but seven- 
teen years old, and I appeal to this assembly to judge if he have 
not seen more years than he states." After answering his remarks, 
I accepted the invitation of a deist to dine with him ; then walked 
to Conesus lake and crossed while it was quite rough, insomuch 
that once a wave run over into the skiff. 

From June Gth to July 9 th, I labored in various towns in the 
vicinity of Conesus and Canandaigua lakes, and saw some persuad- 
ed to leave their sins and choose the service of Christ. 

In Livonia the people seemed barred against the word ; and 
when I inquired of certain why they repented not, they replied 
that they were waiting for God's time to come ; and thus cast the 
blame of their neglect upon the Lord, saying he had withholden 



DAVID MARKS. 107 

the grace needful to enable them, to believe. My "spirit was 
stirred up" within me, when I saw nearly the whole neighbor- 
hood given to fatality, or the doctrine of predestination. I ap- 
pointed a meeting to examine publicly these excuses, and request- 
ed all the advocates of such doctrine to attend. At the appointed 
hour the house was filled ; and after entering the assembly, I de- 
sired some one to give me a text. But none' being presented, I 
opened my Bible, and the words that first met my eyes, were Ps. 
94:20 : " Shall the throne of iniquity have fellowship with thee f % 
I endeavored to show that the prince of this world sits upon the 
doctrine of necessity, as upon a throne ; telling the wicked they 
cannot repent, though God has commanded them to repent, and thus 
stills their consciences, insinuating that the cause of their living in 
sin, is, that God hath not given them ability to turn to him. I believe 
the Lord filled my mouth with arguments, and many, I observed, 
appeared quite restless. After concluding my remarks, liberty 
was given for any to confute the reasons that had been urged to 
prove the guilt of the sinner, and the free grace of God. After a 
short silence, the minister of the place appeared much excited, 
and asked, " What is the difference between the foreknowledge of 
God and his decrees ?" I replied, " Decree is a determination that 
an event shall be. Foreknowledge is simply acquaintance with a 
future event. And while God knows what will be the act of a 
free agent, he knows at the same time, that he may act otherwise, 
because he has given that agent poiver to act otherwise. And 
God's beholding his act, no more compels him to act as he does, than 
my beholding a man act, compels him to the same. Foreknowledge, 
like repentance and anger, when applied to God, is a word adapted 
to our capacity ; but with God, strictly speaking, there is no fore- 
knowledge, because all is with him one eternal now : ' One day — 
as a thousand years, and a thousand years as one day. 9 Therefore, 
with him is no succession of events, but a man's death is as much 
present with God as his birth ; consequently, foreknowledge can 
go no further than afterknowledge hi proving decrees. From these 
principles I argued that foreknowledge could have no effect upon 
the actions of men. God said to Jeremiah, when he sent him with 
a message to the house of Judah, < It mat be that the house of 
Judah will hear.' Jer. 36:3. The prophet went. They did not 
hear. God knew they would not hear. Still he knew they might 
hear." After the conclusion of my remarks, the preacher observ- 
ed, that he did not know but he agreed with the speaker in this, 
that the foreknowledge of God has no effect on the agency of the 
creature. The meeting closed, and the people dispersed. 

Thursday, July 10, I met a large assembly in Dansville. The 
word of the Lord was quick and powerful ; many were touched 



108 MEMOIRS OF 

by it, and their hearts melted. One, in much distress, wept aloud 
on account of sin, and solemnly engaged to turn to the Lord. The 
next morning at 8 o'clock, I held a meeting on Oak hill. The sol- 
emn power of God searched the assembly, and caused such a trem- 
bling, that in the time of preaching, their tears dropped profusely ; 
and one cried, " I perish ! I perish ! I perish !" 

The ensuing nine' days I labored in Geneseo, York, Le Roy, and 
Bat a via. 

Sabbath, July 20, 1 spoke to a large and serious assembly in At* 
tica village, and in the evening preached at Alexander. The Lord 
blessed me, and filled my heart with gratitude and love. Monday, 
I held a meeting in the south part of the town. Jesus made one 
in our midst, and at the close of the interview, eleven came for- 
ward for prayer. On Tuesday I returned to Geneseo to take 
leave of my friends, and bid them adieu. I had enjoyed the satis- 
faction of seeing the number of converts increased to thirty-five. 
Twenty-eight of these had been baptized, and the church increas- 
ed to thirty-three. With them I had enjoyed many happy sea- 
sons. They were all in union, and the parting hour, as it drew 
near, excited much solemnity in my feelings. On Wednesday I 
gave my farewell discourse in Geneseo, and the next day in Grove- 
land. Many, by reason of the crowd, were unable to enter the 
house where we assembled. And when the hour of parting was 
come, we all wept sore. A sense of the changes that a few years 
would make, so affected me, that I could scarcely refrain from cry- 
ing aloud. Alas ! thought I, no age of God's grace to man, has 
passed without being stained by the backsliding of some, who have 
especially shared in his favor. I looked upon the converts, who 
were dear to my soul as life, and queried: " Who among these 
will depart from the holy commandment ? Which of these who 
now appear so humble and happy, will wound the Savior in the 
house of his friends ?" — I could not designate one that I thought 
would. Still the painful reflection was suggested, that it is by de- 
grees, little by little, that the unsuspecting convert first finds him- 
self in darkness, and at length discouraged ; then satan leads him 
captive. " Rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft." ' O !' said I, 
' that these may ever shun its baleful influence.' After much ex- 
hortation, I left them, and proceeding to West Bloomfield, attended 
one meeting by the way in Richmond, and two in Bristol. I spent 
a few days in West Bloomfield and held several meetings. 



BAYID MARKS. 109 

CHAPTER XL 

Particulars of my labors from Aug. io Dee., 1823. 

Aug. 1823. About this time my soul was weighed down by 
viewing the shelterless condition of the wicked. God led me into 
his sanctuary, and I beheld their end, their awful end. Often in 
my sleep, while imagining myself entreating them to turn and 
live, I lifted my voice and cried aloud, frequently waking all in the 
house where I lodged, before my own sleep departed. Sometimes 
I would speak a quarter, or even half an hour, before I was suffi- 
ciently awake to know that I had no assembly. And as by preach- 
ing from one to three times in a day, I could not free my mind, — 
in my leisure hours I wrote an address to the unconverted of three 
classes, " the aged, the middle aged and the youth" which was pub- 
lished in a pamphlet of twenty-four pages. 

Aug. 9, 1 received it from the press at Canandaigua at 2 o'clock 
in the morning, and rode thirty-three miles to Barrington by 1 o'clock, 
P. M. ; at which time the Benton quarterly meeting commenc- 
ed at that place. During this meeting many of the dear followers 
of the Lamb were quickened by the spirit In the ministers' con- 
ference on Monday, my brethren examined my views of the char- 
acter of Christ ; and decided that I was not sound in doctrine. 
While in Ohio, I staid a night with a Methodist brother, who was 
a class leader. He warned me very pointedly against the senti- 
ments of a people called New Lights, representing them to be 
Unitarians and a species of modern deists — and handed me a 
pamphlet containing their views of the character of Christ, writ- 
ten by one of their leading men. His object was to inform me of 
their sentiments. On retiring to my lodging, I took this book with 
me and read till midnight. It appeared to have been written by a 
learned man. I was but a youth, unacquainted with the doctrines 
of men, and erroneously supposed that if called of God to preach 
the gospel, I should be able to answer every argument that the 
sophistry of men might suggest in support of false doctrine. I be- 
lieved the Unitarian doctrine to be false ; but to my confusion, I 
found myself unable to answer the arguments I read. They were 
new to me, and struck my mind with unexpected force. Still I 
feared that the talents of the author had been too powerful for my 
youth, and falling on my knees, I prayed the Lord to keep me from 
embracing error. But as I was unable to answer the arguments, I 
imprudently yielded to their force ; for, instead of impartially and 
thoroughly searching the Scripture, with a full reliance on its testi- 
10 



110 MEMOIRS OF 



mony concerning the nature and character of Christ, separate from 
all the doctrines of men, I falsely supposed that if these Unitarian 
views were not consistent with the doctrine of Christ, the Lord 
would enable me to discern their fallacy. And as I could not per- 
ceive how two persons could be one being, from this supposed diffi- 
culty, the Unitarian mode of reasoning, and the Unitarian views of 
Christ, gained the ascendency in my mind. This circumstance 
happened when I was sixteen years old. My manner of preach- 
ing, however, continued the same as formerly ; for I thought my- 
self perfectly safe in using Scripture language while speaking of 
the Savior, and I wished from my heart to believe and preach noth- 
ing less of my Savior than was written of him in the word of God. 
The ministers' conference, though composed of those that firmly 
believed in the real divinity of Christ, thought it best to renew my 
letters. They did this, not on the principle that they believed me 
sound in doctrine, but because they believed the Lord had sent me 
to preach ; and they believed that the truth of God would lead me 
out of what they called my childish thoughts. They gave me a 
solemn charge to examine the Bible carefully and try to find the 
truth. This advice I accepted thankfully. The issue of my re- 
flections, the sequel will show. 

Leaving Barrington, I travelled eastward some more than one 
hundred miles to Brookfield, and on the way attended several meet- 
ings. Sabbath, August 17, I preached twice in Brookfield, and on 
the next day heard Lorenzo Dow at Bridge water. His manner of 
preaching was very peculiar — its character is generally known. I 
could but admire his dress, as it exhibited studied convenience and 
profit, independent from the changeable fashions of this age of su- 
perfluities. In the afternoon of the same day I held a meeting in 
Plainfield, and the Spirit of the Lord was in the midst. Tuesday 
and Wednesday, I went to Fabius, and again heard Lorenzo preach 
to about five thousand people in a wood. Fifteen minutes after 
his meeting closed, I spoke to about seven hundred in the same 
place, and the Lord favored me with a good degree of his Spirit. 
Several appeared much affected, and O ! that the good seed may 
spring and grow, and bring forth fruit unto eternal life. In the 
evening Lorenzo preached at the Calvinistic Baptist meetinghouse. 
His subject was the tree of life. Rev. 22:1, 2. He remarked that 
this tree was generally thought to be Christ ; but the circumstan- 
ces of its being represented in the feminine gender, " yielded her 
fruit," and of its being watered by the river from the throne of 
God and the Lamb, and of its being on either side of the river gave 
the preference to the conclusion that it is the church. The fruit, 
he said, was the various graces and virtues of the Christian ; and 
the leaves signify the prayers of the church for the healing of na- 



, 



DAVID MARKS. Ill 

tional transgressions. In the discourse he described the different 
classes of Christians, and said, " Of the Baptists, there are two 
kinds ; the free-willers and the bound-wilier s ;" then turning to me 
as I sat behind him in the desk, he put his face close to mine, and 
looking me in the eyes, said ; " Do you be careful, and never get 
to be a bound-will Baptist." This excited a smile from some, yet 
he appeared to be perfectly serious. As he sat down he invited me 
to speak, and accordingly I made a few remarks. 

The next morning, hearing a wagon pass at break of day, I 
arose and looking out at a window, saw Lorenzo, who had lodged 
at another house, hastening on his way to Tully corner, seven miles 
distant, where he had an appointment at eight o'clock, A. M. I 
made ready, went to the place, and called at a public house. The 
landlord met me at the door, and said ; " Are you the Levite ?" 
As I queried concerning his meaning, he said ; " Mr. Dow called 
for breakfast for himself, his wife, and a little Levite, that he said 
would soon come." He then led me to the room where Lorenzo 
and his wife were seated at the table. Lorenzo said, " There comes 
the Levite." A seat, plate, &c. had already been prepared for me, 
though I had not intimated to any one the slightest intention of 
coming to the place at this hour. 

At the appointed time he seated himself on a horse-block, and 
named his text ; " Go out — and compel them to come in" After 
his introduction, he said, " We are not to suppose that God Almigh- 
ty will bring men in by irresistible power, as I pull this man by the 
collar of the coat."* 

On the same day Lorenzo had a meeting at Otisco lake. About 
fifteen hundred people were assembled, and before his sermon I had 
the privilege of addressing them. His discourse was on prayer, 
and full of instruction. In the evening I held a meeting in On- 
andaga, and on Friday at 2'clock, P. M., in Skeneateles. At 
three, Lorenzo preached on the green in this place to about two 
thousand from a clause of Acts 5:35 : " Take heed to yourselves 
what ye intend to do as touching these men." After the close of 
his discourse, I gave notice that if any were disposed to stay I 

* At the same time, seizing my collar, he drew me from my seat, This circum- 
stance was so singular and unexpected, that it made me laugh, till I felt ashamed, 
and I wept for having been so much off from my watch. This, and several anecdotes 
that he related, excited considerable laughter in the assembly, and brought a trial on my 
own mind. After meeting I asked him what his motive was in being thus eccentric; 
and remarked that it appeared to me, the ministration of the word of God ought to be 
with much solemnity : and such things, by exciting a trifling spirit, would prevent the 
good that otherwise would be done. He replied, •' There is so much fatality in these 
little villages, that many sinners will not repent ; and still they will cast the blame on 
God, saying they cannot do otherwise-, therefore they must be convinced of their false 
doctrine which is leading them to destruction. My object is to impress truth on their 
miods, in such a manner, and by such circumstances as are innocent, and yet will not 
permit them to forget it. And as to their laughter, I have nothing to do with it ; they 
must see to it." 



112 MEMOIRS OF 

would preach to them in fifteen minutes. A thousand or fifteen 
hundred remained, and listened attentively to the word. On the 
Sabbath I heard Lorenzo preach to six or seven thousand in a 
grove in Auburn. The next day I attended his appointment at 
Waterloo, and the day following heard him preach twice in Gene- 
va. I solicited him to attend the Holland Purchase yearly meet- 
ing, and preach at least one discourse ; but he would give little en- 
couragement. I went to West Bloomfield, and found that a pres- 
ent of clothes, to the amount of five dollars, had been left with El- 
der Millard for me, about fifteen minutes after my departure when 
here before. May the Lord reward this kindness. At Rochester I 
heard Lorenzo again, and enjoyed a pleasant interview with a 
preacher who had kindly encouraged me, and strengthened my 
hands in the first of my labors. Friday I went to Parma and preach- 
ed free salvation ; some disliked it, but I trust good was done. 

Saturday, Aug. 30, 1823, the Holland Purchase yearly meet- 
ing opened in Sweden at ten o'clock, A. M. From impres- 
sion of duty, I gave the first discourse, on 1 Thess. 5:19 : " Quench 
not the spirit." At 12 o'clock, Lorenzo Dow unexpectedly enter- 
ed the meeting. Every eye was turned upon him, and all wished 
to hear him preach. Presently he named Songs 6:10 : " Who is 
she that looketh forth as the morning, fair as the moon, clear as 
the sun, and terrible as an army with banners?" His discourse 
was not only full of instruction, but also of the Spirit. No use- 
less singularities damped our joy, but every heart seemed touched, 
and we felt to bless God for this sermon. I had now heard from 
him twelve discourses, which were all quite instructive, though 
the latter appeared the most powerful. In the afternoon Elder 
Craw preached ; and in the evening, meetings were held in differ- 
ent neighborhoods. The next day I attended the ministers' con- 
ference, and received a letter of commendation for the service of 
the church. 

A pious female, who was a member of the Congregationalist 
church, and a school teacher in the place, observing that my coat 
was much worn, prevailed on her friends to make a collection ; to 
which she added a few dollars, and presented me a garment that 
lasted me to travel many thousand miles, and to preach to many 
thousand sinners. I received it as from the Lord. After attend- 
ing one or two meetings, I went to Geneseo and Groveland in com- 
pany with Elder Dean, and we held a few meetings which were 
interesting. It had been said by the unbelieving, that as soon as 
" David" was gone, the converts would turn again to the world ; 
but now I had the satisfaction of finding this prophecy false ; for 
they were all apparently well engaged, pursuing the way to heav- 
en. In the last meeting we held, nearly all the converts were to- 



DAVID MARKS. 113 

gether ; and every one present spoke of the loving kindness of the 
Lord, and expressed a resolution to persevere in the grace of God. 
After this we visited and preached in Naples and Poultney ; and 
crossing Crooked lake, we went to Jersey and held several meet- 
ings. Some were awakened, among whom, as I understood, was a 
physician that had been a professed deist. Next we went to the Lit- 
tle lake, where, upon short notice, a considerable assembly came out 
to hear, most of whom were irreligious ; still they were much af- 
fected by the word, and when dismissed, were loth to leave the 
place. 

Tuesday, Sept. 9, we arrived at Benton. I retired to a grove, 
and dedicated myself anew to the Lord ; solemnly covenanting to 
live nearer the fountain of goodness, that I might know the height 
and depth of perfect love, and be more successful in winning souls 
to Christ. Returning to the house of Elder Dean, I endeavored 
to persuade a young woman no longer to procrastinate repentance. 
She wept profusely, but would not promise to turn and live. Alas ! 
how many, when the Lord calls, and makes them sensible of the 
awful danger of living in sin, still harden their hearts and refuse 
their best, their only eternal friend admission, till sooner than they 
are aware, they find themselves on a bed of languishing — on the 
verge of the eternal world — unprepared to meet the awful 
" swellings of Jordan !" O Savior ! help me, teach me to persuade 
them. 

Wednesday I held a meeting in Benton, and the next day preach- 
ed at Jerusalem on the " Judgment to come." Some were touched 
by the Spirit, and wept under the word. On Friday, I visited my 
youngest brother, then about seven years old, who was living with 
a man on Bluff Point. I found him in a field, but he did not know 
me. I told him I was his brother David. He wept- — but said 
nothing. The recollection of past changes touched my heart, and 
looking upon my little brother I wept, and raised a prayer to God 
to protect him from the evils of the world, and have mercy on his 
soul. After staying a few hours, I bade him adieu, and went to 
Dresden. 

In this village I spoke to an assembly, partly attentive and part- 
ly confused. During the sermon one or two stones were thrown 
at me, but did no injury, except to witness against those, who thus 
showed their enmity to God and to their own souls. As I retired 
from the meeting, some one threw part of a pail of water upon me, 
and not satisfied with this, threw stones till L was out of reach. 
But as David said nothing to Shimei when he cast stones at him, so 
I thought best to pass in silence, yet groaning in spirit, and reflect- 
ing on the words of Christ : " O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that kill- 
est the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how 
10* 



114 MEMOIRS OF 

often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen 
gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not !" 

On Saturday 13, I attended monthly meeting with the church 
in Benton, and preached a short discourse on Col. 2:6. The breth- 
ren appeared to renew their strength, and resolve through the 
grace of God to be his faithful servants. The next day I held 
two meetings in Milo. Much solemnity and weeping were in the 
assemblies, and I could but hope some good fruit will appear in 
eternity. In the evening, I preached at Benton, and it pleased the 
Lord to favor me with unusual liberty. Monday was spent in vis- 
iting and praying from house to house. I delivered a discourse in 
the evening, and the banner of the Lord seemed to be over my 
soul. The next day I met another congregation in Milo, and while 
speaking, the people were clothed with much solemnity. In the 
mean time, an enemy came without, and close by the window at 
which I stood, gave a hideous yell, and then fled. Ah ! thought I, 
poor guilty man may flee now, to keep his guilt secret — but a day 
will come, when he would gladly flee beneath a falling mountain. 
to hide from " Him that sitteth on the throne" and from the wrath 
brought upon him by his sins. But alas ! he will not be able to 
find a refuge. 

Wednesday I was attacked by a fever ; but having an appoint- 
ment some miles distant, I thought it duty to attend. It rained 
considerably, and on reaching the place I was very wet, and found 
but few collected. After preaching to them I returned to Elder 
Dean's, and passed a very restless night. Feeling some better the 
next day, I accompanied Elder Dean to the west part of Junius, 
and gave a discourse. Friday I visited my father's family, and 
after a short stay proceeded to Lyons, and preached in the even- 
ing. Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 20 and 21, I attended a two- 
days' meeting in Sodus. This was an interesting season, and good, 
I believe, was done. O that fruit may hereafter appear. 

During five days following, I held six meetings in Williamson, 
in which I enjoyed the free Spirit, and saw some good signs of re- 
pentance among the people. From Sept. 26 to the 1st of Oct., I 
held four meetings in West Bloomfield, two in East Bloomfield, 
and one in Mendon. Some of these were solemn, and a few souls 
appeared to be penitent. Wednesday, Oct. 1, I went to Le Roy, 
and enjoyed a pleasant interview with my eldest brother. He ac- 
companied me to Ogden to attend a general meeting on Saturday 
and Sabbath, Oct. 4 and 5. We had considerable good preaching. 
Oct. 11 and 12, I attended the Benton quarterly meeting, in the 
town of Galen. Hie weather was rainy and quite cold, still we 
enjoyed a precious meeting. On Monday and Tuesday I met at- 
tentive assemblies in Junius. While addressing them, it pleased 



DAVID MARKS. 115 

the Lord to send his light into rny soul ; and I felt to thank his 
name for the verification of his promise : " Lo I am with you al- 
vmy even unto the end of the world" When dismissed the people 
were not in haste to depart, but remained as though they were 
still hungry for the word of life. Wednesday I held a meeting in 
Phelps, and the day following had an appointment at Manchester. 
In the latter place I was a stranger, and knew not the state of the 
people. As I drew near I felt a solemn impression that God would 
immediately revive his work, insomuch that upon my arrival, I 
stated to several my expectation of seeing the salvation of God 
in Manchester. A large number were convened, and I felt the 
special aid of Heaven while speaking to them. But nothing unu- 
sual occured till a young woman cried aloud for mercy at the con- 
cluding prayer. As soon as she had opportunity she addressed the 
assembly, told them she was a sinner, and needed salvation, and 
gave an affecting invitation to her associates to go with her to seek 
Jesus. Many were much impressed, wept bitterly, and from this 
time began to seek the Lord. The next morning, a little after the 
sun was risen, we had another meeting, in which several were 
wounded by the king's arrows ; and it was truly a melting hour. 

After preaching twice in Williamson, I passed to Ontario, where 
the Bethany quarterly meeting opened on Saturday, Oct. 18, 1823. 
This day, though heavenly to many, was to me dark and melan- 
choly ; but in the evening, while preaching near the ridge, the 
Lord comforted my soul and made me happy. O how abundant is 
his goodness. _ He satisfieth the hungry with food. Sabbath morn- 
ing, worship commenced at nine o'clock. Elder Jenkins preached 
in the Spirit from Heb. 11:10 : " For he looked for a city which 
hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God." This was fol- 
lowed by an instructive and refreshing discourse from Elder J. N. 
Hinkley, upon Eph. 2:8 : "For by grace are ye saved through 
faith ; and that not of yourselves : it is the gift of God." In the 
latter part of the day, after another sermon had been given, I be- 
lieve the Lord opened my mouth on Matt. 7:14 : " Because strait 
is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few 
there be that find it." Not a cloud veiled my mind, — I felt the 
power of the blessed God in my soul, and on my tongue. This 
quarterly meeting, by the grace of God, was made a blessing to 
many, and great solemnity clothed the concluding scene. Many 
retired with a desire to become acquainted with the Savior ; and 
not long after, several obtained their desire. In the evening I at- 
tended a meeting in the south part of the town ; and on the next 
day witnessed a pleasant scene — the baptism of six happy con- 
verts, who were added to the church in Ontario. On the evening 
of the same day, I held a meeting in Williamson ; and as the in- 



116 MEMOIRS OP 

quiring Greeks showed their solicitude saying, " Sir, we would see 
Jesus," (John 12:21,) so eight or ten in this meeting manifested the 
same desire ; and so deeply were some of them affected, that they 
wept aloud. 

Tuesday, I returned to an appointment in Manchester, and re- 
joiced to find that some who were in much distress when I left the 
place, had obtained deliverance and were now happy in the Lord. 
The next day we assembled again in the same place : some mount- 
ed on wings of love, while others in the bitterness of their souls 
cried aloud to the Lord for mercy. In the evening I enjoyed a 
good meeting at Williamson, and the next day, at ten o'clock, A, 
M., a powerful and awakening time was experienced in Ontario : a 
number, deeply impressed, manifested a determination to turn and 
live. The same day, I preached to an assembly in Manchester. 
On the day following we met again. The assembly was large, and 
our interview was crowned with the special presence of God, which 
touched many hearts, and caused a great weeping throughout the 
assembly. 

On Saturday, there fell a tedious storm of rain and snow, and 
having an appointment the next day in West Bloomfield, I rode 
twenty-five miles and took a cold, much to the injury of my health. 
Sabbath, Oct. 26, I preached twice in the same town, and was 
much opposed by a Universalist. On the day following I returned 
to Manchester, and spoke from Eccl. 8:11 ; — a few were awaken- 
ed. Tuesday and Wednesday I preached in Williamson and Man- 
chester ; in the latter place we were again much blessed. The 
glory of God filled the hearts of his people — Hfteen came forward 
for prayer, and kneeling, we called on Him who " hath power on 
earth to forgive sins." I held another meeting in this place, one 
in Livonia, and three in Groveland, — in all of which my blessed 
Master was with me and gave me freedom. 

Nov. 4, 1823. This day completes my eighteenth year. And 
while I look on my past life, and review the afflicting scenes 
through which the Lord hath led me; when I contemplate the 
great good that my God has bestowed on me in childhood, I am 
constrained to wonder and admire. I think my soul feels the im- 
portance of improving the talent committed to the charge of my 
youth. The language of my heart is, Lord, help me to live to 
thy glory, and in all that I do, have an eye single to thy praise. 
Strengthen me, that if my life be spared, I may spend this, my 
nineteenth year, in thy service, and proclaim salvation to a world 
lying in wickedness — that when my course shall be concluded, it 
may be finished with joy. 

From the 4th to the 30th of Nov. I labored in various towns ly- 
ing in the vicinity of Canandaigua lake, and saw several conver- 



DAVID MARKS. 117 

sions. In Canandaigua, I saw my Baptist friend, that nearly three 
years before took me from the village to his house when my soul 
was in affliction, and advised me to return home. Now, he told 
me he had changed his mind, and advising me to continue my la- 
bors, bid me " God speed." In Middlebury and the east part of 
Attica, a considerable number were powerfully awakened, and nev- 
er rested till they gave their hearts to the Savior. In these places, 
the children of God, seeing a cloud overshadow the church, were 
filled with ecstacy. O, what an hour of joy it is, when the Lord 
hears the groanings of his children, and comes down to deliver. 

Sunday, Nov. 30, I preached in Attica and Alexander, and the 
next day proceeded to an appointment in Batavia. Here, calling 
on brother Seymor, I met with an affectionate reception, and found 
that my sleigh, which had been left there through the summer, was 
taken away the evening previous. A part of it was put on a hay 
stack about a quarter of a mile distant, and the other part was 
hung on a broken tree. As only one or two little things were in- 
jured, I would have thanked these nightly adventurers, could I 
have known them, for restraining their spirit to this little injury. 
In the meantime I understood that many slanderous reports were 
in circulation, and some were using much effort to injure me, and 
had reported that I would not attend my appointment. These 
things, however, moved me not, for I had to reflect, that as yet not 
quite " all manner of evil" had been spoken of me. A goodly 
number attended my appointment, and the Lord favored us with an 
impressive season. I believe he gave me words to speak, and thus 
it was easy preaching. 

Dec. 2, 1823, I preached in Bethany, and the next day in Mid- 
dlebury. At this meeting several weighty testimonies were given 
by converts, who had lately been brought into the fold of Christ. 
More than twenty covenanted to seek the Lord from this time, and 
gave me their hand as a sign of their covenant. Friday evening, 
I attended worship in the west part of the town, and enjoyed a re- 
freshing time, one not soon to be forgotten. Sunday, Dec. 7, I 
spent on the town line of Batavia. In the forenoon we had an in- 
teresting season, and in the afternoon it seemed as if the Holy 
Ghost descended and filled the house. Many wept, and many re- 
joiced. Bless the Lord for this visitation. In the remaining part 
of this week I held meetings in Stafford, Elba, Clarkson, Parma, 
and Ogden, and felt that I was not alone. In some of these places 
the state of engagedness was low. 

I next spent six days in Groveland and Geneseo, and held sev- 
eral meetings. The Lord was in our midst, and filled his children 
with his Spirit. I felt to say with the Psalmist, " One thing have 
I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after, — that I may dwell in 



118 MEMOIRS OF 

the house of the Lord all the days of iny life." At this time, near- 
ly a suit of new clothes was given me by several females, who 
had been converted in the late revival. I felt to thank the Lord, 
and pray that they may provide for themselves " garments that 
wax not old." 

Sunday, Dec. 21, I preached my last discourse in these parts for 
the present, and to me it was a solemn time, for the saints in these 
towns were particularly dear to my heart; yet the joyful hope of 
reaching a land where there will be no more parting was a source 
of great consolation. Monday, I left at the dawn of day, and staid 
the night in Farmington with a deist. We had much disputation, 
and I could but groan in spirit while hearing his light and trifling 
remarks on that religion which alone can prepare us for the joys 
of heaven. O that God may have mercy on his soul. Tuesday, I 
preached a farewell sermon in Manchester, and enjoyed a good 
time. A collection was taken and given me at this meeting, to as- 
sist in bearing my expenses to New England. Wednesday, though 
very blustering and tedious, I rode forty miles to Benton, where I 
enjoyed a sweet refreshing in the worship of God. Friday, I re- 
turned to Junius, and found a step-mother in the empty place of 
the departed. 



CHAPTER XII. 

My Second Visit to New England, 

In Junius I staid two days, and attended the monthly meeting of 
the church to which I was attached. I also met two assemblies, to 
whom the Lord helped me to speak the word of life. 

Dec. 28. The time had now come that called me to attend a 
line of appointments leading to New Hampshire, which had been 
given out more than two years. Soon I expected to be in a land 
of strangers where often the secret places would be preferred to 
the cold-hea/ sd society of those who neither know nor feel a 
stranger's sortow. My heart was full, and though I seldom at- 
tempted to sing, I gave vent to my feelings by trying to sing the 
following lines of Colby. 

" O, if poor sinners did but know 
What I for them do undergo. 
They would not treat me with eontempt, 
Nor slight me when 1 say repent," &c. 



DAVID MARKS. 119 

I retired alone, and entreated the Lord to reconcile me to my 
lot, and bless my labors in this journey. I then returned to bid 
my father farewell. As he took me by the hand, he said, " My 
son, it is harder parting than it ever was before." I met an ap- 
pointment in the evening in Galen, and, Oct. 31, arrived at Brook- 
field in Madison county. In this town I spent several days, preach- 
ed eleven times, and saw several awakened to feel their need of an 
interest in Christ. After this I gave six discourses in Plainfield, 
one in Burlington, and one at the Free Communion Baptist meeting 
house in Winfield. Some of these were attended with much so- 
lemnity, particularly the last. Jan. 16, 1824, I left those parts, 
went to Western, and met with brother Jacob W. Darling, a young 
preacher from Rhode Island. I attended meetings with him on the 
17th and 18th of the month. These interviews were graced by 
the presence of the great Head of the church — joy beamed on the 
countenance of Zion, and her children made mention of the name 
of the Lord. On Monday, backsliders confessed their wanderings, 
and returned weeping. In the evening I attended a meeting at 
the east part of the town. 

On Tuesday I preached in Floyd, and enjoyed a sweet visita- 
tion of the Holy Spirit. Some were ' pricked in their heart' and 
wept bitterly ; at the close of the meeting a young man came 
trembling, and giving me his hand, entreated me to pray the Lord 
to have mercy on him. After going to Western and preaching 
twice, I went to Rome and spoke to an attentive audience in the 
court-house; favorable impressions seemed to be made on the 
minds of some. Jan. 28, I had an appointment at a school house 
in Floyd, but some opposers appointed a spelling school at the 
same place, and said they would prevent our meeting in the house, 
if they had to keep us out with clubs, so we repaired to the Bap- 
tist meeting house. This proved rather an advantage to us, for 
not half the assembly could have entered the school house. I spoke 
from Heb. 12:25 : " See that ye refuse not him that speaketh" &c. 
The Holy Spirit rested on the people, and many trembled at the 
word of the Lord. Wednesday, I preached on Quaker Hill, from 
Prov. 16:18, " Pride goeth before destruction, and a haughty spir- 
it before a fall." I spoke very pointedly on the destruction of the 
wicked; yet a professed Universalist arose wee) ^g, and said 
they had heard the truth, and entreated the assembiy to receive it. 

Pursuing my journey eastward, I preached several times in the 
towns through which I passed, and saw some of the obdurate and 
high minded weep for their sins, and, I trust, persuaded to forsake 
them. 

.On Wednesday, Feb. 9, I visited a school in Canajoharie for the 
deaf and dumb, and enjoyed much satisfaction in conversing with 



120 MEMOIRS OF 

the scholars by writing. They manifested much seriousness and 
reverence on seeing the name of God, and seemed to have solemn 
ideas of their accountability. In the evening, I attended a meet- 
ing in this town, and the next day one in Root. Saturday, I met 
an assembly in Charlestown, and on the Sabbath preached again 
in Root. The Lord blessed me with freedom. An unconverted 
man, with whom I staid the night previous, promised in tears to 
seek and serve the Lord. One of his family was serious also, and 
desired prayer. Sabbath evening, I spoke to a solemn auditory in 
the north part of Charlestown, and the next day with much free- 
dom in Charlestown meeting house. On Tuesday I went to Flor- 
ida, and preached to a weeping assembly ; and the day following 
addressed a large congregation that seemed hardened in sin. A 
cloud hung over us, and but little light found way to the people. 
Alas ! how ' slow of heart' are men to believe, and how many wait 
for conviction, till they are convicted by the miseries of a hapless 
world ! The next day I preached again in Florida. 

Friday, Feb. 20, I commenced attending my appointments of 
long standing, and preached to about one hundred in a ball-room 
at a place called Yankee street. This was a very good time. In 
the afternoon I proceeded on my journey in a sleigh. A thaw com- 
menced, and for ten miles before I reached Schenectady the ground 
was mostly bare. I now had to walk ; and as there appeared no 
prospect of snow, the way was very gloomy. On arriving at Schen- 
ectady, I found my appointment had been forgotten. I dined with 
brother Smith, a Methodist preacher, and proceeded on my way, 
querying in regard to duty. I was among strangers, neither able 
to purchase a saddle, to hire my horse kept, nor to reach my ap- 
pointments on foot. But loth to fail of them, I reached Troy, after 
much fatigue, in the evening, and found the people through mistake 
had assembled in the afternoon. Sabbath morning, Feb. 22, I pro- 
ceeded through a cold snow storm to Brunswick, preached to an 
assembly at nine o'clock, and felt much comforted. I succeeded in 
borrowing an old saddle at this place, and proceeded to Pittstown. 
At two o'clock, P. M. I spoke to an assembly in the Baptist meet- 
ing house, and some appeared to be much affected. In the even- 
ing I held a meeting in Hoosac, and the next morning met another 
assembly at nine o'clock in the Baptist meeting house, which was 
quite crowded. The Master of assemblies stood by me, blessed be 
his name. The hearts of the people were opened, and they gave 
me about three dollars. 

Passing through Bennington, I hasted over the Green Mount- 
ains, in order, if possible, to reach my appointment in Wilmington 
at nine o'clock the next morning. The snow was about eighteen 
inches deep on the mountain, and the road little broken. Night 



DAVID MARKS. 121 

came on — and soon I entered a wood where it was five miles to the 
next house. The evening was cold, and my clothes thin for trav- 
elling on horseback. My feelings on this occasion may be more 
easily conceived by those who have been in similar circumstances, 
than by such as usually sit by their firesides during the bleak winds 
of winter, and enjoy the society of their friends. 

An opening at length appeared ; I returned thanks to the Lord, 
and soon procured lodgings at a tavern. The next morning I trav- 
elled ten miles, and reached my appointment in season. A consid- 
erable number met in the Congregationalist meeting house, among 
whom was a woman ninety-two years of age, who had walked near- 
ly two miles this cold morning to attend the meeting. She appear- 
ed to have a blessed time, and rejoiced that she had come. I 
spoke to a few in Marlborough the same day, and the day after 
met about two hundred in Dummerston. Here was one of the 
churches that had separated from the Calvinistic Baptists, and es- 
tablished themselves on free principles. Some, solicitous of hear- 
ing a Free-will Baptist, had come more than thirty miles to this 
meeting. I endeavored to give a summary of the principles of 
Bible doctrine, and enjoyed much freedom. Considerable serious- 
ness was manifested in the assembly. The bridge at Brattleboro' 
having been swept away, I crossed West idver, and proceeded to 
the Connecticut river, expecting to cross at a ferry ; but the boat 
being bound in ice, I passed up the river a few miles to another 
ferry, and crossed at 8 o'clock in the evening, with some difficulty 
and danger, as the river was full of ice floating down with the cur- 
rent. The next morning, I proceeded early through a storm of 
snow, seven miles to Chesterfield, and at nine o'clock spoke to an 
assembly of about two hundred people. Many seemed deeply af- 
fected. At twelve o'clock I started for Stoddard, twenty-three 
miles distant, where I had an appointment for the evening. A lit- 
tle before sunset, when still six miles from the place, I found the 
road filled with drifted snow, and could proceed but slowly. I had 
to face a piercing wind, with rain and hail — and it was soon so 
dark that I could not discern the road. At length I found that 
my beast was wandering in a field, and I knew not where to go. 
My clothes were frozen around me — the wind had increased to a 
gale — and soon my way was again hedged by drifts. I thought of 
my affectionate friends sitting by their pleasant firesides, and quer- 
ied whether I should perish by the cold, or again enjoy their soci- 
ety. But the reflection, that not even a hair of my head should 
fall without my Heavenly Father's notice, comforted my spirit. 
Presently I saw the glimmering of a distant light, — guided by it, I 
found the road, and at eight o'clock arrived at Stoddard. Finding 
the assembly had dispersed, I put up at an inn, and was very hap- 
11 



122 MEMOIRS OF 

py in the reflection that my blessed Master had prepared for me a 
home, where through grace, I hoped soon to rest for ever from the 
arduous toils of a travelling life. 

Friday, on my way to Bradford, I found the road again obstruct- 
ed by drifts. I took down the fence, and went in the field till I 
came to a stone wall, then passed into the road and led my horse. 
After passing such difficulties in a number of places, I reached an 
appointment at two o'clock, and in the evening met another assem- 
bly in the north part of the town. During the six days following, 
I met eight appointments in different towns between Bradford and 
Enfield. From these labors I expect to meet some fruits in eter- 
nity. 

Friday, March 5, having been inclined to go to the south, I 
hoped that somewhere in that direction, the Lord would grant un- 
to me to see his salvation. Accordingly I went about thirty-five 
miles, and held a meeting in Bradford. This was a solemn, 
awakening time, and it was impressed on my mind, that the Lord 
had a work for me to do in this place. A woman that was an op- 
poser of religion, and had not attended a meeting for several years, 
was excited by curiosity to come and hear the youth. It pleased 
God to send conviction to her heart ; she became much distressed, 
asked forgiveness of thpse whom she had persecuted for righteous- 
ness' sake, and sought the Lord night and day, till she professed to 
find comfort. I held meetings in Bradford generally every day, 
and sometimes two or three times a day. The " true light" shone 
upon the people, and in almost every meeting some were awaken- 
ed. Soon the songs of redeemed souls gladdened the church mili- 
tant, and doubtless made the angels rejoice. As is usual in revi- 
vals, our meetings were crowded, and the hearts of many were 
seriously impressed by the word of the Lord. Sometimes the spir- 
itual testimonies of the converts added much to the interest of the 
meetings. Some backsliders were reclaimed, and took away the 
stumbling blocks they had laid — many lukewarm professors were 
awakened — and almost every day some requested the prayers of 
saints, and kneeled, seeking the mercy of God. 

On one occasion I had quite a severe trial. Meeting a consid- 
erable assembly in the south-east part of the town one afternoon, I 
opened the meeting by prayer, and named a text as usual. After 
speaking about five minutes, a dark cloud veiled my mind. With 
much difficulty I uttered a few words — then all was closed up, and 
finding nothing to say I took my seat. After weeping a few min- 
utes, I told the people God had given me no message to them, and 
therefore I could not preach. In half an hour they dispersed, and 
I started for Fishersfield. But the trial I now endured no tongue 
can tell, no pen describe. Egyptian darkness covered my mind, 



DAVID MARKS. 123 

and I was loth any one that attended the meeting should see my 
face. It seemed as if the Lord had forsaken me, and all comfort 
had fled from my bosom. My life appeared as a vapor — like a 
solitary shadow, a worthless thing, — and once I dismounted, and 
turned aside to pray the Lord to take me out of the world. But 
a monitor within whispering, " This will be sin," I again mounted 
my horse, and as I passed along, strewed my tears by the way for 
nine miles. I arrived at the house of Deacon Morse, where an 
appointment had been given out for me on that evening, yet my 
spirit had found no rest, and I desired a place in the wilderness to 
bemoan my sorrow. Soon I found myself about a quarter of a 
mile distant, lying upon the snow in a wood, and pouring out my 
anguish in sighs, groans and tears. I thought it had been good for 
me if I " had never been born/' The devil tempted me with 
deism and atheism ; my mind was thrown into much confusion, and 
I often cried, " Lord, have mercy on me ;" yet I found no relief. 
Night came on. I returned to my appointment, as the people 
were collecting. I thought they would be disappointed ; for I had 
concluded not to preach without a change of feeling, and this I did 
not expect. But just as the people were seated ready to hear, it 
seemed as though the dear Redeemer came and touched me ; in an 
instant all my doubts fled away. He unveiled the beauties of his 
face, and the very room and assembly appeared to shine with the 
glory of God. I arose and spoke with much freedom, and bless- 
ings were poured upon the assembly. Thus the Lord brought me 
through a fiery trial ; and although while enduring it, I could see 
no good that could arise from it, my heart now felt to bless God 
even for this visitation, — for it had increased my faith, and taught 
me more effectually my entire dependence on God. On my re- 
turn to Bradford, I was told that a professor of religion had said of 
me : " The Lord has not sent him to preach, for if he had, his month 
ivoidd not have been closed" One that was not a professor, re- 
plied, a If he has come without being sent by God, I should suppose 
that he could preach as well at one time as at another" I under- 
stood that an aged sinner who attended the meeting, went home 
much affected, saying, " We are so wicked that God will give his 
servant no message to us." 

Soon after this, a deist came to my appointment, and while the 
people were gathering, he thought to embarrass me by his argu- 
ments. In a little time he affected to be disgusted by my talk, and 
left the assembly. I understood that he returned home and took 
his bed, saying he was sick, but would not have a physician, or re- 
ceive any food for nearly three days, when he exclaimed, " My 
sickness is not of the body, but of the soul ! O, what have I been 
about these forty years !" Then he sent to a Christian friend to 



124 MEMOIR3 OF 

come and pray for him. This was the first time he had ever per- 
mitted prayer in his house. In a short time he professed to be 
converted, and expressed great astonishment that he could have 
neglected the Savior and his own soul so long as he had. As he 
had been a great opposer of Christianity, this change in him touch- 
ed the hearts of several. The work now revived afresh, and as- 
snimed an aspect still more promising. In a short time others pro- 
fessed to come to the knowledge of the truth. 

During my stay in Bradford, which was six or seven weeks, 
twelve or fifteen named Christ. Several of them were baptized 
by Elder Rowe, who resided in the place, and were added to the 
Free-will Baptist church. Many others were awakened, but did 
not at this time give their hearts to God. I also visited and preach- 
ed in Hillsborough, Henniker, Hopkinton, Warner, Salisbury, Sut- 
ton, Fishersfield, Wilmot, Springfield, Enfield, Newport, and some 
other towns. In a few of these places I held five or six meetings 
each, and they were blessed to the awakening of some. 

Leaving Bradford, I went to West Windsor, Vt., and enjoyed 
one or two good meetings. The brethren here gave me about sev- 
en dollars, principally in clothing, which I greatly needed. In the 
last of April I visited Weare, held three meetings, and enjoyed a 
profitable interview with Elder Hezekiah Buzzell ; — he baptized 
two during my stay. 

Saturday and Sabbath, May 8 and 9, 1824, 1 attended the Rhode 
Island quarterly meeting, at Taunton, Mass. The assembly wa» 
large, and the preaching interesting. I had the privilege of deliv- 
ering two discourses at this meeting, and in one the Lord gave me 
freedom. After the quarterly meeting, I preached in Rehoboth r 
Attleborough, and in some other towns in Massachusetts. Some 
were seriously affected, and in one meeting the cries of anxious sin- 
ners were heard. I next went to Rhode Island, and attended a 
meeting with Elder Greene in North Providence, where a revival 
had just commenced. The Lord Was in the midst, and a great 
weeping was in the assembly. Several cried with earnestness, 
" Lord, have mercy ! Lord, have mercy !" At the close, ten kneel- 
ed for prayer. 

I staid sixteen days in Rhode Island, and each day held meet- 
ings in different towns, among which were Cranston, Johnston, 
Smithfield, Burrillville, and Gloucester. Having read Colby's 
journal of his labors in some of these towns, when the Lord visited 
his people, and made Zion like a fruitful field, I expected to find 
the brethren engaged in holy humility and fervent devotion. But 
not considering the changes that are made by time, I felt some dis- 
appointed. 



DAVID MARKS. 125 

In the latter part of May, I visited my relatives in Burlington, 
Conn. My grandfather and uncle welcomed me affectionately. A 
revival in this place had lately gladdened Zion, in which about one 
hundred had professed to experience regenerating grace. Some 
of my relatives were among the converts. I held one meeting 
with them, and it was a weeping time. In Middletown, I enjoyed 
a pleasant interview with my uncle, Elder Josiah Graves, and his 
family. Two of his children were engaged in the service of God. 
His eldest son had lately commenced preaching with considerable 
success. I attended two meetings, felt much freedom in speaking, 
and several were solemnly affected. 

On Monday, taking leave of my kind relatives, I went to Hart- 
ford, and the next day, June 1, 1824, to Tolland, where an Indian 
mulatto was to be executed for taking the life of his wife. This 
deed was done when he was intoxicated. As I drew near the place 
of execution, and saw thousands running to the field of death, great 
solemnity filled my mind. And on rising a hill, the fatal gallows, 
surrounded by a vast multitude of people, met my sight, and re- 
minded me of the judgment of the great day, when the nations 
shall assemble before Jehovah to receive their sentence according 
to the deeds done in the body. Alas ! then will the ungodly have 
their sentence, to be cast into the burning lake, executed on them, 
and none will deliver them. I stood near the scaffold, and at a 
little distance beheld the gloomy prison which confined the unhap- 
py criminal. Soon he was taken from his dreary cell and seated 
in a wagon on his coffin. Enclosed by the officers and guard, and 
surrounded by the multitude, the criminal advanced slowly — the 
sound of the i death march 7 now fell on the ear with more awful 
solemnity than any music I ever heard. They came to the fatal 
spot — the convict alighted — walked to the stairs, and ascended the 
scaffold apparently with indifference. I was told that he had no 
hope in God! yet he appeared to be senseless of the awful change 
of this hour, and exhibited a striking instance of the obduracy of 
the human heart, when inured to crime, and its feelings destroyed 
by strong drink. He looked scrutinizingly at the gallows, scaffold, . 
and all the preparations for his exit ; and appeared anxious that 
the rope should be placed easily on his neck. This being done, he 
stood erect — the plank fell — and he was silent in death. I looked 
upon the people, many were in tears, and some had fainted. Then, 
thought I, this man suffers justly for his crime, receiving his due 
reward : yet how many tender sympathies are awakened for him, 
and how many tender females are weeping at his fate. But when 
the Savior of the world suffered ! what a difference ! He walked 
to the place of execution, " hearing his cross" while on him was 
u laid the iniquity of us all /" His disciples had forsaken linn and 
11* 



126 MEMOIRS OF 

fled ! he was surrounded by the persecuting Jews, and the unfeel- 
ing Romans. He suffered not a momentary pain by a rope, but 
hung three dreadful hours nailed upon the cross, notwithstanding 
he had already " sweat as it were great drops of hlood" in Gethsem- 
ane. But who was there to sympathise and weep when Jesus suf- 
fered ? True, the beloved disciple, with three or four holy women, 
whose affection had summoned more courage than the apostles had, 
stood by the cross of their dying Lord, and were melted by the 
sight. But though so small a number in this world felt and wept 
when Christ was crucified — yet, one that never wept before, now 
veiled his face — the sun could not endure the sight — " and there 
was darkness over all the earth." The rocks too, felt, and rent 
asunder — -and the slumber of the dead was broken. 

I retired from the scene with a heart full of feeling, and return- 
ed to Rhode Island, preaching by the way. 

On Thursday, I journeyed forty miles to Littleton, Mass. where 
I had an appointment. This was made in the street, as it was dif- 
ficult in these parts, to find an open door for a dissenter from what 
is esteemed orthodoxy. Having mistook as to the distance, I ar- 
rived at the place one day before the appointment, and calling at a 
tavern I desired that my horse might be taken care of. The land- 
lord, knowing that I had given the appointment, said, " No." I 
asked the reason, as he kept a public house. He said he would 
not encourage me by entertaining me. I asked him if my money 
was not. as valuable as that of another. He then changed his tone, 
saying, * O yes, if you will pay .me, I will willingly entertain you." 
The time passed away very slowly, and was principally spent in a 
field, fasting. The next morning a neighbor that came in, asked 
if I was the one that appointed the meeting, and whether I had 
credentials. I handed them to him ; he read them, and said, " Ah, 
then you belong to the Free-will Baptists ? Well, what do the 
Free-will Baptists believe ?" I named free agency as one of their 
sentiments. He began to argue against it, and condemned it as not 
orthodox. I said, they believe that " Christ tasted death for every 
man." He treated this sentiment in the same manner that he did 
the other. And thus he disputed every principle that did not ac- 
cord with his own views, insomuch that I could not find opportuni- 
ty to answer his question. After disputing the doctrine that I had 
advanced for some hours, he invited me to his house, and there I 
could have very little conversation except controversy. At iengtli 
he^gave an invitation for the meeting to be held at his house. I 
enjoyed much freedom, and many were melted into tears; among 
them was the man who opened his house for the assembly. After 
meeting, I paid my bill at the tavern, and left the town happy in 
God. I met a crowded assembly at Mount Vernon, and many 



DAVID MARKS. 127 

showed signs of contrition. After meeting closed, I was repri- 
manded for preaching free salvation, free agency, &c. ; but as this 
doctrine had just been powerful in touching the hearts of sinners, I 
was the more confirmed that it was the doctrine of Christ. 

Saturday, June 12, 1824, 1 attended the New Hampshire year- 
ly meeting at Weare. The day was principally occupied in hear- 
ing reports of revivals in different parts of the yearly meeting, and 
the testimonies and exhortations of the saints. Accounts were also 
given of some glorious revivals in the state of Maine. Sabbath 
forenoon, Elder John Buzzell spoke about two hours. Though 
aged, his eye seemed not dim, nor the patience of the people wea- 
ried. In the afternoon, the galleries being much crowded, began to 
give way ; many were frightened, and some confusion ensued* 
Several left them, and soon the assembly was composed. Elder 
Enoch Place then preached a long and affecting sermon — many 
hearts were touched, and the meeting closed with signs of good* 
On Monday, I attended the Ministers' conference, which was inter- 
esting and conducted with much harmony. 

Tuesday and Wednesday I w x ent seventy miles to Sandwich, in 
the easterly part of New Hampshire. At this time there w r as some 
revival in the place, principally under the labors of brother David 
Moody, a youth of nineteen years. I spent nine days laboring 
with them, and preached thirteen sermons. It pleased the Lord to 
give us heavenly seasons. We saw several new instances of con- 
viction — heard the cries of the penitent, and sometimes the songs 
of the delivered. At one meeting, within the space of twenty 
minutes, four were brought into liberty, and praised God for salva- 
tion. ' Glory to the Lord for all his mercies.' Some articles of 
clothing were given me, and were thankfully received. When I left 
the place, about twenty had been hopefully converted, and it was 
thought the good work had but just begun. 

In the latter part of the month, I visited several towns in the 
state of Maine, and enjoyed some blessed seasons in preaching 
Christ. I held a meeting in Parsonsfield, and was affectionately 
received by Elder John Buzzell, a faithful minister of the gospel. 
He was contemporary with Randall, and had spent the greater 
part of his life in preaching Christ. I attended three or four meet- 
ings in Porter, and saw some powerfully convicted ; and a few who 
had forsaken the right way, confessed their wanderings, saying, 
they were resolved to turn again and live. I received information 
afterward that a revival followed these good signs. 

Returning to New Hampshire, I met an assembly in Effingham, 
and the Lord enabled me to speak in the power of the gospel. In 
the meantime a dark cloud overspread the sky, and vivid lightnings 
with heavy thunder, increased the solemnity of the meeting. I 



128 MEMOIRS OF 

said to the sinner, " You have no security while living in sin, and 
for aught you know the next thunderbolt may hurl you into the 
eternal world." I had scarcely spoken these words when a sud- 
den peal of thunder shook the house, and almost stunned the as- 
sembly. A blazing tree, but a few rods before the door, discover- 
ed to us that the shafts of death had passed just by us. This seem- 
ed to alarm many, and they wept for their sins. Some desired 
prayer, kneeled with us, and covenanted to seek the Lord. A re- 
vival followed the meeting, and thirty or forty professed to be con- 
verted. 

In the early part of July, 1824, I returned to "Weare, and found 
that brother Abel Thornton, who had agreed to accompany me to 
New York, was laboring successfully among the people. As he 
had appointments given out for a few days, I staid and attended 
several very interesting meetings with him. 

Sunday, July 11. We had appointments to preach our fare- 
well discourses, and expected to leave for New York the day fol- 
lowing. But at six o'clock, A. M. a messenger arrived from Brad- 
ford, a distance of seventeen miles, bringing tidings of the death 
of brother Joseph Cheney. He said, that a little before his death 
he requested that I should preach his funeral sermon. This news 
awakened all my tender feelings, and excited a lively recollection 
of happy hours that I had enjoyed with him during the revival at 
Bradford. He was then confined by a diseased leg, and was some 
of the time in a gloomy state of mind. He endured great pain for 
many months, when, hoping to recover, his leg was taken off. But 
this was done too late — the disease had gone too far to be stayed. 
The Lord raised his mind from doubts and gloom, and in sweet 
submission to his Heavenly Father's will, he left this world of pain 
and sorrow. I left Weare at eight o'clock, A. M., and reached the 
house of mourning at twelve, where several hundred people had 
collected. I spoke from Rev. 14:18 : " Blessed are the dead which 
die in the Lord from henceforth : Tea, saith the Spirit, that they 
may rest from their labors, and their works do follow them" The 
amputated limb had been taken from the earth, and placed with 
the body in the coffin. As the mourners entered their solitary hab- 
itation after the funeral solemnities closed, they poured forth their 
grief like a flood, and every spectator wept. I conversed a few 
minutes with the afflicted widow, who was a devoted Christian, and 
strove to impart some consolation. But this seemed only to revive 
the memory of past scenes, and deepen the sense of her bereave- 
ment. Thus brother Cheney died in the morning of his days — 
left a wife to weep — two pleasant babes, scarcely to know a fath- 
er's kindness — and the church to mourn their loss. This was one 
of the most solemn days of my life. Taking leave of my afflicted 






DAVID MARKS. 129 

friends, I returned to Weare the same evening, and on the way en- 
joyed much serious reflection, and heavenly consolation. 

Monday morning, brother Thornton and myself left Weare, and 
proceeding on our journey we passed through Brattleboro', Vt., 
crossed the Green Mountains, held one meeting by the way, and 
on the 16th of the month arrived at Ballstown, New York. We 
preached a few times in this town, and found friends. We visited 
the celebrated mineral springs, and drank of the water. But these 
waters, thought I, can bear but little comparison with the water of 
life. Large numbers come to these springs, from all parts of the 
country, for the recovery of their health ; yet how many fail of 
their desired object — return home — and die. But whosoever 
" drinketh of the water" that Christ shall give, " shall never die." 
Yet, what vast multitudes refuse to come to the " water of life," 
though it is free, " without money and without price," — and though, 
unless they come, they know they must endure the pains of 
eternal death. 

Leaving Ballstown, we crossed the Mohawk and continued our 
journey to Canajoharrie, where we spent a few days, and preach- 
ed often, but saw little fruit of our labor. Yet, as " the husband- 
man waiteth for the precious fruit of the earth, and hath long pa- 
tience," so we hoped that some fruit might yet appear. From the 
25th of July to the 20th of August, we visited and preached in 
Plainfield, Winfield, Brookfield, Paris, Brothertown, Westmore- 
land, Verona, and Rome. In these meetings we witnessed good 
seasons. Some were awakened, and a few brought into the liberty 
of the gospel. Li Brookfield, Brothertown and Verona, glorious 
revivals had lately gladdened the hearts of hundreds. We enjoyed 
some refreshing interviews with the converts. 

In the latter part of August I arrived at my father's in Junius. 
I had been absent about eight months* and was received with un- 
usual gladness, — for my friends having heard that I was sick nigh 
unto death, little expected to meet me again in this world. 

On Wednesday, 25th, we held a meeting in Benton, and after 
this proceeded fifty miles to Groveland. In this place the yearly 
meeting opened in a grove, on the 28th of August, 1824. The 
reports from the different parts of the yearly meeting brought good 
tidings of the prosperity of Zion in several churches. On Monday, 
we had a Ministers' conference, in which we knew by happy ex- 
perience, that it is good for brethren to dwell in unity. 

I labored with brother Thornton several days in Vienna, Ver- 
ona, and Westmoreland, with some success. As he decided to 
preach for a little season in these towns, Sept. 11, I bade him fare- 
well. To me it was a painful parting. I had enjoyed many hap- 
py hours with him. He was humble, grave, holy in conversation 



130 MEMOIRS OP 

and deportment ; his fervent love to Zion, his many tears, and un- 
wearied labors for sinners, had greatly endeared him to my soul. 

I now thought it my duty to visit several churches in the Hol- 
land Purchase yearly meeting, and to make preparations to travel 
far into the western country, to preach the kingdom of God to the 
destitute people in the wilderness. Taking a passage on the canal, 
I went to Junius, staid at home some days, and held several very 
solemn meetings. The seriousness was increased by the death of 
a near neighbor of my father, who was drowned. In one of these 
meetings two spoke for the first time. I visited Groveland again 
and held five meetings. In one we witnessed the outpouring of 
the Spirit, much to the comfort of the saints. Next I attended a 
meeting in Bristol, and four in Middlesex. In two of these the 
Lord greatly blessed me while speaking, and so filled my soul with 
his glory, that there seemed but one step between me and heaven. 
Blessed be the Lord ; I believe he gave me the word, and the peo- 
ple received it as from him. I held a meeting in Jerusalem, and 
found Wm. Van Tuyl, a young man who was awakened in my last 
visit, now happy in the Lord. Leaving Jerusalem I went to Dres- 
den, and while crossing the Seneca lake to Ovid, there was a great 
calm, so that we Avere four hours in going five miles. In this time, 
as a shower came upon us, I took an umbrella and seated myself 
in my gig. Instantly the carriage turned over backward, and my 
head just hit the side plank in such a manner, that had I fallen an 
inch or two further back, doubtless I should have finished my 
course. I felt thankful to God for his preserving care, and said 
with myself in the language of Dr. Watts : 

" Dangers stand thick through all the groud, 
To push us to the tomb." 

Wednesday, Oct. 6, 1824, I enjoyed an interview with my sister 
at Ithica, whom I had not seen for nearly three years. She lived 
in a religious family, yet I could but think of the time when she 
had a mother's care. On parting with her, we experienced all 
those tender emotions which soften the heart on such occasions. 
The next day I returned to my father's, and on Friday went to the 
Benton quarterly meeting, which was held at Sodus on the 9th and 
10th of the month. Here I unexpectedly had another interview with 
brother Thornton. The opportunity was sweet to my soul ; but 
the reflection that we were soon to be parted, perhaps forever, — 
and that in a few days I should be travelling in the lonely forests 
of the west, made the hours to haste away like the shadows of the 
plain. His preaching was spiritual, and gave much satisfaction. 
Monday, we took the parting hand, and dropped the parting tear. 
I was bidding farewell, to meet no more in this world. Yet the 
blessed hope of rejoining each other in our Heavenly Father's 
kingdom comforted our hearts. 



DAVID MARKS. 131 

CHAPTER Xni. 

My Second Journey to Ohio, 

On Wednesday, Oct. 13, I bade my father and his family adieu, 
intending if it should be the will of the Lord, to go as far west as 
the Mississippi river, and publish the glad tidings of salvation to 
the needy in that section. I had only sixty-nine cents to bear my 
expenses a journey of one thousand miles, nine hundred of which 
were among strangers. But feeling constrained to go, my trust 
was in Him who said, " Lo I am with you alway, even unto the end 
of the world? He had shown me great care, and I believed he 
would still protect me. 

Pursuing my journey westward to Hamburg, near Buffalo, I 
preached in most of the towns through which I passed. In 'Par- 
ma, where a revival had commenced, a large number came for- 
ward for prayer. I stopped two days with my faithful friend, 
Elder Hinckley, who gave me much good counsel, and presented 
me six or seven dollars. In Alexander, several careless sinners 
were awakened and prayed for mercy. 

Thursday, Nov. 4, 1824. Another year has fled forever — and 
still I live. I remember that a year ago to-day the query arose, 
1 Shall Hive to see another year? 9 This is decided. But O, how 
many have left this world and are now conversant with eternal 
scenes ! Heaven has spared me till nineteen years of my life are 
passed. And why is this ? Is it that I may be useful to Zion, 
and glorify God ? Alas ! how little successful have I been the 
past year in winning souls to Christ. How many thousands have 
heard me preach — yet how few of them have been persuaded to 
turn and live ! Had I lived nearer the Lord, I should have been 
more successful — and many to whom I shall never speak again, 
might have been saved from death. But these opportunities are 
gone forever — till the heavens be no more. Then I must meet 
them, and give account to God of what I have preached, and how 
I have preached. Lord, forgive all the unfaithfulness of thy 
unprofitable servant, and enable me henceforth to have no will but 
thine — no object, but thy glory — and no work but what thou shalt 
assign me. But whether I shall live to see another year or not, is 
known only to Him with whom all things are present. Therefore, 
may I live each day as humble as though it were my last, and 
preach every sermon as faithfully as though it were my last; so 
that should my time come " as a thief in the night," I may be pre- 
pared. " Even so let it be, Lord Jesus." 



132 MEMOIRS OF 

I spent the three following days in Boston, and held five meet- 
ings. Some heard with tears, and a few promised to seek the 
Lord. Next day I preached twice in Eden and held two meetings. 
Friday, I proceeded on my way toward Ohio, — not knowing what 
should befall me, save that experience bore me witness that pover- 
ty and afflictions awaited me. Yet the Lord wiped away my tears, 
and I felt peace — believing this journey was in obedience to the 
requirement of my Heavenly Father. Saturday, held a meeting 
at Hanover, but enjoyed little freedom. On the Sabbath, preach- 
ing again at Hanover, the gracious Redeemer freed my spirit, and 
made my soul to mount up as with wings. At the close, fourteen 
kneeled, while prayer was made for their salvation. Continuing 
my journey, I preached in several towns in New York and Penn- 
sylvania. 

Tuesday, Nov. 23, I entered the state of Ohio, and spoke with 
freedom to a solemn assembly in Conneaut. Here a glorious re- 
vival was gladdening Zion, under the labors of Elder Asa Morri- 
son. About two hundred had professed to find the " pearl of great 
price." On Thursday I attended Elder Morrison's appointment to 
preach a funeral discourse. He read 1 Pet. 1:24, 25, for a text, 
spoke about ten minutes, then told the people he could not preach ; 
and after addressing the mourners about five minutes, he took his 
seat, apparently much depressed in spirit. Feeling an impression 
of duty, I arose immediately, and spoke from the same Scripture. 
It pleased the Lord to give me much liberty. Blessed be his name. 
Thursday, Nov. 25, had been appointed by the governor of the 
state for a day of public thanksgiving. I met an assembly in the 
evening at the centre of the town, and many I believe felt that 
thankfulness which makes the soul happy. The next day I preach- 
ed in Monroe, and the word appeared to touch the hearts of some. 
The day following I visited a family who professed no religion — 
conversed and prayed with them, and left them all weeping. Sab- 
bath I addressed an assembly at Conneaut centre, from Jeremiah 
6:16. Through the whole there was much solemnity ; and at the 
close, nearly twenty mourners came forward for prayer. In this 
place, five dollars were given me, for which I returned thanks to 
my Master. In the evening I preached at Kingsville. 

On Monday evening, I preached a few miles west of Ashtabula, 

from Gen. 1 :3. After meeting, Mr. invited me to stay with 

him the night. I accepted his invitation : he asked me to eat no 
supper — gave me no breakfast — and charged me for keeping my 
horse. I paid my bill, bade him adieu, and rode twenty miles to 
Perry. Being requested to hold a meeting in this place, I com- 
plied, and was kindly received by the people. The next day I 
preached in the Baptist meeting house at Euclid, twenty-five miles 



DAVID MARKS. 133 

from Perry. A precious season was enjoyed, and many entreated 
me to stay awhile. But believing that duty forbade, I proceeded 
the next morning at dawn of day, and on Friday arrived in Milan, 
Huron county. Having preached in this town considerably in my 
former visit to this state, I now found acquaintance, and was affec- 
tionately received. I spent nearly a week in this town, preaching 
daily. My mind was shut up in doubts and trials in some of these 
meetings, — in others the Lord blessed me. I met some opposition 
from predestinarians, and from the advocates of infant sprinkling. 
I merely entreated them to search the Scriptures, and see whether 
I had preached according to truth. 

Saturday, Dec. 11, I spoke to an assembly in Bloomingville, 
from Rom. 10 : 10. In this discourse I preached a full atonement 
> — and that the Savior is willing to save all men, if they will re- 
pent and believe according to the grace given them in the gospel. 
When I closed my remarks, a man arose and objected to the doc- 
trine : he said it represented God as superfluous in his work; . " For 
instance, like a man who intends to build a house twenty feet by 
twenty, but digs a cellar forty feet by twenty," " Therefore," said 
he, " as one half of this work would be superfluous, so would a 
general atonement be, unless God designed to save all men." To 
this I replied, that the Lord sends the rain and snow on the barren 
wastes unoccupied by man, also upon the fields of the slothful. 
Likewise he maketh the sun to shine, where seemingly there is no 
need of light. Yet this does not prove that the great Creator is 
superfluous in his works. No more can a general atonement, 
whereby all men may have salvation, be a superfluous work. For 
by it alone the equality of God's ways to his creatures is manifest- 
ed, and the sinners personal guilt made to appear, and to fall upon 
his, own soul in such a manner as to leave him without excuse. 
This will make him speechless in the great day of retribution. 

On the Sabbath, I gave two discourses in York. After the close, 
several young men who were mourning for their sins, kneeled in 
the time of prayer. My horse having met with an accident, pre- 
vented me from pursuing my journey, I endeavored to improve 
my detention in labors to save souls in the vicinity where I was 
staying. During the remainder of Dec. I labored according to the 
grace given me, in various towns in the neighborhood of York. 

In Green Creek, I visited a man named Abraham ]\farks, who 
was at the point of death. At this time, he was vomiting a black 
substance, which, as his physician afterwards stated, was his vital 
parts. Still he was free from pain, and seemed to be almost with- 
out concern. He knew not that death was nigh ; but in a few 
minutes his spirit took its flight. The day after, I attended the 
funeral and preached from Eccl. 7: 2. "If is better to go to the 
12 



134 MEMOIRS OF 

house of mourning than to go to the house of feasting : for that is 
the end of all men, and the living ivill lay it to his heart" It was 
u time of much weeping. But alas ! the sorrow of many continu- 
ed only for a little season, and their forge tfulness of God returned. 
While on our way to the grave, which was in the edge of a forest, 
the sun went down, and the solemnities of the burial were much 
increased by their being performed by moonlight. 

January 1, 1825, I addressed a solemn assembly in York, and 
started again on my journey, but had gone only five miles, when 
my horse became so lame that I was unable to proceed. So I re- 
turned to York, and held a few meetings. As my beast remained 
unfit for use, and as no prospect appeared of a change for the bet- 
ter, I concluded to teach a school in this town and preach with the 
people. Accordingly I engaged one for three months at ten dol- 
lars per month, hoping by this to be enabled to supply my wants, 
and free myself from embarrassment. From the commencement 
of my travels, I had endeavored to employ all my leisure time in 
study, and by this course had improved my education. Still I was 
poorly qualified for the business ; but the school being backward, I 
thought by diligence and perseverance I might get along. This 
was my first engagement in any worldly employment for four years. 
I now made stated appointments twice a week in York, and twice 
in Green Creek, five miles from my school. I generally walked 
to th°, latter place after the close of my school, frequently without 
having taken any food after breakfast, except a piece with my 
scholars, and often arrived at the meeting too late to partake of 
any refreshment till after the exercises. Sometimes, in order to 
meet my engagements, I would leave Green Creek without any 
breakfast, and arriving only in season to commence my school, I 
would have no opportunity to get a regular meal till night. Three 
or four miles of this distance lay through woods, and having no 
guide except marked trees, twice I lost my way, and wandered for 
some time. These toils and privations I endured joyfully, that I 
might warn the wicked and win souls to Christ. Sometimes the 
Lord gave me freedom, led my soul into the deep waters, and com- 
forted me with the cheering light of his countenance. 

In York, a few believed in the Lord, and in the latter part of 
January, a church of twelve or fourteen members was organized 
by Elders J. Mugg and Samuel Bradford. This month I attend- 
ed the Huron quarterly meeting, which was a quickening, refresh- 
ing time to Zion. In Green Creek, we had some good seasons. 
A small number professed to find Jesus, and many others were 
much impressed, but shrinking at the cross they found no salvation. 
Still I sowed with the hope, that the good seed of the kingdom would 
yet spring up and bear fruit. In this town I was called to preach 



DAVID MARKS. 135 

on two funeral occasions. One was a young man just married, 
who after one week's sickness, was cut off from life. The other 
was an aged man. Neither of them professed to have any hope in 
Christ. Alas ! how many live without God, and are unprepared 
when called to meet the conquering foe. I visited other towns at 
the distance of ten, twenty, or thirty miles, and preached according 
to the grace given me. At some of these meetings, there were 
good signs ; at others, my spirit was cast down, and the solitary 
places were witness to my groans for the salvation of sinners. 
Generally, however, I enjoyed peace of mind, which was sweeter 
than anything this earth can afford. 

About two months after the commencement of my school, sick- 
ness began to prevail, and a number of my scholars were taken ilL 
This so reduced the school, that after obtaining the consent of my 
employers, I dismissed it. By faithful care, my horse had become 
fit for use, and I made preparations to go my way. 

March 18, I crossed the Indian reservation, twelve miles through 
the wilderness, and the day following, attended a meeting at the 
Methodist missionary station at Upper Sandusky. March 20, I 
proceeded to Big Island in Marion county, where I found an as- 
sembly collected to hear Elder David Dudley, who was a Free* 
will Baptist. Many more were present than could enter the house. 
Being a stranger, I took a seat without, till the discourse was clos- 
ed. Then, going to the door, I looked in and said, " There is in 
this town, a certain son, who has received of his father a rich in- 
heritance, with every kindness a parent's love can bestow. The fa- 
ther has visited the son several times ; — but, without cause, the som 
has absolutely refused even to receive him into his house ! The 
father has reasoned the case, and affectionately entreated the son 
again and again, — reminding him of his liberality and uniform 
kindness. Still, this son, though he did not pretend to dispute the 
kindness of his father, nor assign a single reason for his own con- 
duct, has obstinately persisted in refusing to give his father admis- 
sion into his habitation." Inquisitive countenances, surprise and 
disgust, with a breathless silence, immediately ensued. After a pause, 
I said, " This son is now present." The anxious inquiry, " Who can 
it be ?" seemed heightened, and the people looked on one another 
with astonishment. Then said I, " Sinner, thou art this rebellious 
son ! God, thy Father by creation, has given thee all the good thou 
hast ever enjoyed. Often he hath visited thee in mercy, and knock- 
ed at the door of thy heart — but by unbelief thou hast obstinately 
bolted him out ■!" The Spirit of God set this home to the assem- 
bly — and many wept. A justice of the peace, that was present, 
felt this applied to him as though a voice from heaven had said, 



136 MEMOIRS OF 






" Thou art the man." He felt that he was the rebellious son, and 
mourned for his sins till God spoke peace to his soul. 

Here my acquaintance with Elder Dudley commenced. He re- 
moved to this town about two years previous, and gathered a small 
church, but they had labored under many trials. Elder D. had of- 
ten wept for the unbelief of the people and the low state of Zion. 
The Lord had lately answered his prayers, and revived His work. 
He was witnessing a revival in the place of his residence, and in 
an adjacent town. A large number had already been converted, 
and the church increased to forty-five or fifty members, all happily 
united in the service of God. I found many open doors for preach- 
ing ; and my health being poor, and the time so far passed, I gave 
up the idea of going to the Mississippi ; and for a time labored in 
Big Island, Salt-rock, and at Marion county seat. The Lord fa- 
vored me with some good seasons. 

About this time, I visited Grand township, which joins Salt-rock, 
and preached in a neighborhood situated on the line of these towns. 
Being strongly solicited by several brethren to teach a school in 
this vicinity, I engaged one for three months, thinking that still I 
might preach as much as my health would admit. I had subscription 
for twenty -five scholars, at $1,50 each, and commenced teaching on 
Tuesday, March 29, 1825. I made stated appointments, three 
times a week at my school house, and once a week about five miles 
distant. In the vicinity of the last appointment the people appear- 
ed to have as little idea of repentance, of regeneration, and 
the nature of the gospel, as any people to whom I ever preach- 
ed. I attended my appointments with them a few weeks, and 
sometimes spoke with much freedom ; but the effect seemed 
no more than beating upon an adamant. At length, despair- 
ing of seeing any success I withdrew my appointments. In the 
vicinity of my school, I found it hard preaching, as the people gen- 
erally had little faith in the gospel, or little understanding even of 
its theory. Their views of the way to heaven seemed to be these : 
— to cease from immoralities — to do good — join the church, and at- 
tend meetings and prayers regularly. Once I remarked in a dis- 
course, ' that a man may be strictly moral, — may be a member of 
the church, — attend family prayer, — and still die in his sins, and 
go to hell.' This remark was much spoken of as a presumptuous 
saying. But few weeks passed, however, before I felt the Spirit 
of the Lord " like a fire shut up in my bones ;" and the power of 
God attended the word to the hearts of the people. 

Sabbath, April 24, I spoke in the forenoon from Luke 9:25 : 
" For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole world, and 
lose himself, or be cast away ?" In the afternoon, I spoke from 
verse 23, of the same chapter : " If any man will come after me ? 



DAVID MARKS. 137 

let him deny himself," &c. Several were pricked in the heart and 
cried to the Lord for mercy. In the evening we had another meet- 
ing, and were still more favored of the Lord. Four anxious souls 
were brought into liberty and praised God. Col. C. of this place, 
arose weeping, and said, " Christian friends, do pray for me ;" 
then he fell upon his knees and wept exceedingly. In about a 
week he found peace in believing, and publicly confessed Christ. 
His conversion was instrumental of the conviction of his wife, who 
also soon found Jesus. 

May 16, 1825. While dining near the school house, I heard a 
sudden sound, like the coming of a mighty whirlwind. A breath- 
less silence ensued, and in an instant, all left the table. Apprised 
of what was at hand, I thought of my scholars, and petitioned 
Heaven to protect them from danger. About twenty-five were in 
the school-house, which was situated in a grove of large oaks. On 
coming into the open air, such a scene was presented as I had nev- 
er witnessed. The trees of the adjacent forest seemed to bow be- 
fore a dreadful hurricane, like grass before the mower's scythe. 
Large branches of trees were flying in the air over the fields like 
husks, the earth trembled at the sound, and all around seemed as if 
the judgment day had come. We clung to the body of a log- 
house that had just been rolled up, to keep from being driven away. 
In about two minutes, this seeming agitation of all nature a little 
subsided. On looking around, we saw an oak four or five feet in 
diameter, which had fallen within two rods of us, but such had 
been the noise, that till now, we had not perceived it. We were 
yet more astonished on finding that the wind had blown very little, 
for perhaps within twenty-five rods of the school house — and 
though the trees fell in great numbers each side of it, not one fell 
within this distance. After the tempest, many pine shingles were 
found in the neighborhood ; and as there were none in these towns, 
the people concluded they must have been brought from the west 
over a fifty mile forest which joined the neighborhood in that direc- 
tion. We understood that in the western settlements, the tornado 
levelled almost every house in its course, till it came to this forest 
We also learned from the public papers, that after it left the coun- 
ty of Marion, its violence much increased as it moved eastward, 
till it came to the east and west forks of Licking. Then it swept 
every thing in its course, levelled nearly every house and barn, car- 
ried many large trees in the air, throwing them end over end like 
the stalks of corn when carried by a fierce wind. The destruction 
of property was great, and several lives were lost. I understood 
that one man who fled from a large brick house into an orchard,, 
had his brains dashed out by a stick twelve inches in length and 
one and a half in diameter, that was driven by the wind. The 
12* 



138 MEMOIRS OF 

house from which he fled was levelled, and the family escaped by 
taking refuge in the cellar. We were also informed, that two men 
on a plain, seeing a cloud rising in the west, watched it, till they 
discovered that it was a cloud of trees, branches, &c. brought by 
the wind. One hid himself under a fallen tree ; the other was 
carried by the wind half a mile, but by clinging to brushes that 
were flying in the air, he finally escaped with his life and sustained 
Httle injury. This whirlwind was thought to exceed in its violence 
toy that had ever visited this country. I thought, Alas ! what will 
sinners do, when the " whirlwind of the Lord goeth forth with fu- 
ry, a continuing whirlwind ; it shall fall with pain upon the head 
of the wicked" " and they shall not escape" Jer. 30:23 ; Job, 11: 
20. Let him that is wise seek a hiding place from that awful storm 
of wrath, which will soon be poured out upon the ungodly. 

The revival continued to progress in the townships of Grand 
and Salt-rock, till twelve or fifteen professed to experience salva- 
tion. Elder Dudley preached with us twice, and baptized eleven 
of the converts, among whom were Col. C. and Esq. H. who was 
awakened at the time I addressed the sinner under the character 
of the rebellious son. These united with the church at Big Island. 
In the meantime, Mr. J. Dixon, a circuit preacher of the Metho- 
dists, came into the vicinity of the revival and gathered a society 
of about twenty-five members. Of these, I understood that only 
four or five professed to enjoy religion. He urged the anxious for- 
ward, saying to them, if they would take up the cross and join the 
society, perhaps they would immediately find salvation. Accord- 
ingly they complied, but sad was the apparent effect ; for from this 
time, as they were within the pales of the church, they seemed to feel 
measurably secure, and soon, to appearance, their concern and anx- 
iety for salvation died away. I think, of the twenty anxious souls 
that united with the society, there was not one, or at least not more 
than one, that professed to experience a saving change of heart. 
Thus the revival stopped. ! how this pained my soul. I wrote 
a letter to Mr. Dixon, and endeavored to convince him that his 
course had been unscriptural, and stated the effect, which, to ap- 
pearance, it had on the minds of the anxious. He returned me an 
answer, in which he justified his practice of building churches or 
societies of unconverted persons. To the answer he added a 
lengthy poetic satire. In this, he called me " Folly's eldest son ;" — 
and made an epitaph accordingly, to be put on my tombstone. As 
he was a professed minister of the meek and lowly Jesus, it deeply 
wounded my soul. With an aching heart, I laid it before the Lord, 
and concluded to let it rest till I should meet him at that tribunal 
from which there will be no appeal. I was informed that some of 
the Methodist brethren were grieved with him for this satire, and 



DAVID MARKS. 139 

talked of reporting him to the Conference. But this was the 
last I heard of it. O that he may repent and find mercy in the day 
of the Lord. 

During my school, I frequently preached in other neighborhoods, 
particularly in Big Island, and at Marion county seat. In the for- 
mer place the revival under the labors of Elder Dudley continu- 
ed, and the church in his care walked in great liberty. A more 
happy and engaged people, I think I had never seen. Such pow- 
er and glory were frequently manifested in their meetings, that 
they were indeed awful on account of the presence of the Lord. 

I was present on a baptismal occasion, that was remarkably in- 
teresting. The day was beautiful, and baptism was performed in 
the river Sciota, in the midst of the great prairie between Big Isl- 
and and Marion. Scarcely a tree or shrub obstructed the sight for 
several square miles. The grass that was now four or five feet in 
height-, ' bended gently before a breeze, while the assembly form- 
ed a procession between one and two miles in length. They came 
to the river about the centre of the prairie where they had been 
wont to baptize, and there met another company of people from 
Marion county seat. A large proportion of this assembly were 
holy Christians and happy converts. They began to sing one of 
the songs of Zion, and were filled with joy somewhat like that which 
gladdened the heart of the disciples, when, as their blessed Master 
was riding into Jerusalem, they cried " Hosanna to the Son of Da- 
vid!" We kneeled on the grass while prayer was made to Grod ; 
then Elder Dudley led five happy converts into the stream who 
came out rejoicing. Much solemnity pervaded the assembly 
and many wept. At the conclusion of this interesting sea- 
son, the church, joining hands, formed a ring, in which those 
just baptized united, and thus received the right hand of fellowship. 
Then all kneeled and prayer was made for theim for the anxious 
that were present, for the assembly, and for the whole world. They 
united again in a song of praise, that with heavenly melody rang 
over the plain. Shortly after they commenced singing, they began 
to shake hands with each other, and before the hymn closed, this 
salutation was exchanged by nearly the whole assembly ; and many 
seemed almost " caught away by the Spirit." While the congrega- 
tion was dispersing, I watched the different companies as they fol- 
lowed the winding paths through the waving grass, and from some 
I heard the voice of singing and gladness till they were lost from 
sight in the distant oak groves that surrounded the prairie of 
Sciota. My soul was melted by the sublimity of the scene ; and 
as I retired, I wept for joy. This day I remember as one of the 
most interesting of my life. 

My school closed on the 25th of June, 1825. I uniformly began 



140 MEMOIRS OF 

and closed the exercises of the day with prayer; and frequently 
made addresses to the scholars, which seemed to gain place in 
their hearts, and they often listened with tears. They had treated 
me with much affection, and I found the thoughts of parting with 
them quite painful. The manner of their instruction from former 
teachers, was very different from that with which I had been ac- 
quainted ; and pursuing the method usual in the eastern states, it 
was not only new and pleasing to the scholars, but also to my em- 
ployers. Many solicited me to engage for another term. I had 
enjoyed peace of mind, and did not feel that I had erred in past 
engagements ; for I had opportunities of preaching often, and the 
Lord had blessed the word to the salvation of some. I had also 
enjoyed an advantage that I did not anticipate. I found that in- 
structing others had contributed to my own improvement. At the 
commencement of my school in York, I began the study of figures 
without an instructor. As I boarded with my employers, and 
preached five or six times in a week, I had little leisure for study, 
till after others retired to rest. By continuing my studies till mid- 
night, and sometimes till two or three o'clock in the morning, I 
succeeded, with two or three exceptions, in working all the sums 
in Adams' Arithmetic, before the close of my second school. 

July 1, 1825, 1 engaged to teach the same school another term of 
three months. Soon I felt impressions, that the harvest time with 
sinners in this place had passed, that several who had been awak- 
ened to seek God, had grieved his Spirit, and that now the Lord 
had said of them as he did of Ephraim : They are "joined to 
idols ; let them alone." I told these impressions in public, and at 
the same time felt a deep sense of the awful justice of the great 
God. I felt that it was a sealing time, and these presentiments 
proved true ; for not one soul, during my stay, afterwards profess- 
ed to find salvation. Still I continued preaching with great free- 
dom, and much peace of mind. My discourses, however, were 
principally directed to comfort and strengthen the saints. I ob- 
served some seriousness in my school, and hoped that at some fu- 
ture period, the good seed that had been sown with many tears, 
would spring up and bear fruit. These hopes were not unfounded. 
One or two years after I left Ohio, I received a letter from a 
friend, stating that several of these children had been converted, 
and often reflected on the serious impressions they received in this 
school. 

About this time, I began to have forebodings that sickness await- 
ed me, and perhaps death. I spoke of these several times to my 
friends, particularly to brother Bates, formerly from Montpelier, 
Vt. He had been in the the holy war forty-six years. The Lord 
had blessed him with a convenient dwelling, and the good things of 



DAVID MARKS. 141 

this life ; and he kindly invited me, if I should be ill, to come to 
his house, where he assured me I should have every kindness in 
their power to bestow. On the 10th of August, I began to feel 
unwell ; but continued my school. The next day, my indisposi- 
tion increased, and with considerable effort I passed through the 
duties of the school, then told my scholars that I was ill, and they 
need not come again till they heard from me. A shower was now 
rising, and as I felt anxious to reach brother Bates', a distance of 
three miles, I rode very fast ; but being overtaken by the rain, 
when within half a mile of his house, I called on a friend, took a 
bed, and staid the night. The next morning, I was only able to 
ride to brother Bates', where I was affectionately received, and 
went immediately to bed. A fever had fastened upon my system, 
and as the climate was unfavorable to my constitution, it was 
thought my illness w T ould be severe. This I expected ; but as it 
increased, clouds veiled my mind, and I enjoyed little comfort. I 
tried to pray, but my prayers seemed like a chattering noise. Oc- 
casional flashes of light, only kept me from sinking. I had often 
thought, if laid on a bed of sickness in a land far from home, the 
smiles of Him in whom I had put my trust would render even this 
situation pleasant, and chase my woes away. But now as my dis- 
tress increased, and the light of God's countenance was withdrawn, 
my trials seemed greater than I could bear. I felt that my soul 
was wading through a furnace of affliction ; I sought the cause, but 
found it not. I knew not that I had neglected any particular duty, 
or committed any particular sin, for which I was thus forsaken of 
the Lord. In consequence of my gloomy state, sceptical sugges- 
tions troubled me ; and satan tempted me to doubt the reality of 
religion, the immortality of the soul, and even the existence of 
God. But the many evidences of the divine authenticity of the 
Scriptures, with my own experience, wherein my soul had been 
made exceeding joyful in circumstances, temporally, very afflictive, 
prevented these evil suggestions from taking any root in my mind* 
Again, I reflected, that this state is one of trial, and in the inti- 
mate connection of soul and body, it would be strange indeed, if the 
state of one should not in some measure affect the condition of the 
other. If, by trouble of mind the outer man wears away, as of 
consumption, w r hy should it be incredible that disorder of body 
should affect the mind ? From these reflections, I resolved that a 
happy state of feeling should not be the basis of my hope ; that 
though my sight was dim, I would still walk by faith. Yea, I said 
in my heart, " Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him''' 

In a little time after my confinement, I became very sick, and 
lost to myself. After midnight, brother Bates went several miles 
for a physician, and soon another was called. They were both 



142 MEMOIRS OF 

men of skill, and very attentive. In about ten days they succeed- 
ed in checking the fever, and I began to amend. The family seem- 
ed to know no weariness in the abundant care and kindness they 
bestowed upon me ; and to this day the remembrance of it melts 
my heart. 

In the latter part of August, a quarterly meeting was to be or- 
ganized in Norton, twenty-five miles distant. Feeling anxious to 
attend, I ventured to ride five or ten miles in a day till I reached 
the place. Four churches united and formed the Marion quarterly 
meeting. Three of these were in Big Island, Marion, and Nor- 
ton. The quarterly meeting contained two Elders, David Dudley 
and Samuel Bradford, and about one hundred members. My heart 
was glad for the good work of the Lord in this wilderness. But 
my short journey had been too much for my strength, and my fe- 
ver returned ; so that during the meeting, I did not stay in the as- 
sembly more than two hours. In this time I sat in a chair, and 
preached about an hour with some freedom. I retired immediate- 
ly from the barn where the meeting was held, went into a cham- 
ber, and lay down on a sheet expanded on a frame, to prevent the 
inconvenience of the heat. Here I continued, mostly alone, pass- 
ing the time in much restlessness and weeping, till the quarterly 
meeting closed. Then I returned slowly to Marion county seat; 
and when I arrived, my strength was so exhausted, that I thought 
I should fall from my horse. Col. H. Gorton, a brother and friend, 
seeing my situation, met me a few rods from his door, and helped 
me into his house, and on to a bed. In a few minutes a chill struck 
me, my mouth and tongue became cold and numb, and for a little 
time I was unable to speak. After this I was confined by what ia 
called a chill fever, a complaint frequent in Ohio, and which often 
proves fatal. I remained at brother Gorton's about a week, and 
was attended by one of my former physicians ; then I went to the 
house of Elder Bradford, and staid another week. I endured 
much pain at both these places, and frequently had turns of de- 
rangement ; but at the close of the second week, through the bless- 
ing of God, my health was measurably restored. The kindness I 
received from these friends will long be remembered. May Heav- 
en bless them. I had formed some acquaintance with Elder Brad- 
ford in New York, and the opportunity I now enjoyed with him 
was comforting. 

About the middle of September, I was able to move slowly from 
place to place, and hold a few meetings. I called to see my phy- 
sicians, and though they did not profess religion, they declined re- 
ceiving any reward for their services, and seemed to take satisfac- 
tion in showing me these favors. O that it may be said to them 
in a coming day, " I was sick and ye visited me" After this I re- 



DAVID MARKS. 143 

turned to Grand township, again commenced my school, and con- 
tinued it two weeks. 

In the early part of October, 1825, I attended the organization 
of the Ohio yearly meeting, in Center, a township joining Big Is- 
land. Elders David Dudley, Moses Dudley, Marcus Kilbourn, 
Samuel Bradford, and two or three other preachers were present 
Huron, Marion, and Miami quarterly meetings united ; and in these, 
I think there were ten ordained preachers, and thirteen small 
churches. The number of members was not ascertained, but prob- 
ably did not exceed three hundred. We enjoyed some refreshings 
through a part of the meeting ; but on the Sabbath it appeared to 
be a time of mourning, especially among the preachers. In the 
latter part of the day, however, the free Spirit dispersed the gloom 
in some measure, and several weighty exhortations excited a de- 
gree of feeling in the assembly. As the meeting was about to 
close, a great solemnity filled my soul. By faith, I saw the " Plant 
of renown" spreading its tender branches over the wilderness of 
the west and south. It seemed as though the future prosperity and 
glory of the church were instantly presented before my eyes. I 
beheld the little praying bands scattered amid the plains and for- 
ests of Ohio from Lake Erie to Ohio river, and west into the des- 
erts of Indiana, and saw them worship in their log cottages. And 
the period seemed near, when this little company, now assembled 
in a barn to hold the first yearly meeting, should become a great 
people. I thought with myself, O what will the Lord do for them 
in twenty years ! Surely we have reason to believe he will work 
wonders. O, if Randall and Colby could have been here to-day. 
and have seen the white fields ready for the harvest, how would 
they have wept for joy. Twenty years from this time, if the breth- 
ren remain steadfast, and the Ohio yearly meeting assemble, what 
wonders, what glorious revivals and additions can they speak of to 
the praise of their Redeemer. Then they may look back to this 
day, and remember they were but as a handful. The meeting closed 
with much solemnity, and many I believe w r ent away comforted. 

I had labored under constant depression of mind since the time 
of my confinement; and only at intervals, and even then but for a 
few minutes, was I happy. At this meeting, the Lord granted 
some comfort to my soul ; but to my sorrow, I found that my joy 
departed immediately after. My days were again solitary, and 
spent in mourning ; and my prayers seemed an empty sound. I 
felt that I had little more work to do for the Lord in this part of 
His vineyard. A constant gloom continued to veil my mind, my 
labors seemed more worthless than the dust, and I could se-e no 
prospect of their being useful. One month of the term for which 
I had engaged to teach was yet to come, and I concluded to ask a 



144 MEMOIRS OF 

dismission, that I might return to New York. This was granted ; 
and in two days, all my employers, with one or two small excep- 
tions, paid what was due on the school bills. 3 attended a few 
meetings in the vicinity of my school, and in neighboring towns. 
Thick darkness seemed to cover me, and I deeply sighed for barren- 
ness of soul. Could the trees on the plains of Marion county 
speak, they might tell the solitary hours I there spent in sighs and 
groans. 

About the 10th of October, 1825, I bade my brethren and 
friends farewell. It was a solemn parting — and to me a gloomy 
time. My health was still poor, and I was very feeble. A jour- 
ney of nearly five hundred miles lay before me, to travel principal- 
ly on horseback, amid the winds and rains of autumn. But this 
was nothing compared with the cheerless winter that chilled my 
poor soul. Sometimes I would try to apply to my case the words 
of David : " Why art thou cast down, O my soul ? and why art thou 
disquieted within me ? Hope thou in God ; for I shall yet praise 
him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God" Still this 
could not bring the life-giving presence of my Savior ; nor recall 
the happiness of former days. I proceeded on my journey to 
Green Creek and York townships, a distance of about fifty mile?. 
After resting some days and holding a few meetings, I continued 
my journey to Wayne, preaching occasionally by the way. I ar- 
rived at this town the first day of November, gave notice for a 
meeting at the house of Mr. Morse, and a considerable room was 
soon filled. A revival had lately gladdened Zion, and if I was cor- 
rectly informed, all in the assembly, except three, professed relig- 
ion. Of this I was ignorant at the time, and my mind was led to 
direct my discourse to the unconverted. I spoke from Prov. 23: 
23 : " Buy the truth and sell it notP From an impression, I turn- 
ed and addressed a stranger who stood by my side, in the following 
manner : " Young man, remember though thou art now in time to- 
morrow thou mayest be in eternity ; though to-day thou art with 
us in the body, to-morrow thou mayest be conversant with disem- 
bodied spirits in the eternal world." This man was the only ma^e 
in the assembly that had no hope in Christ. I was informed that 
he went home quite serious, and made some remarks on the youth 
of the preacher, and the sermon he had heard, that indicated his 
heart had been touched. The next morning he arose in like man- 
ner solemn, but soon commenced singing a song, apparently to 
drown reflection. This had been his usual manner when convic- 
ted, according to his frequent confessions. One of his associates 
coming in while he was singing, said to him : " You feel quite mer- 
ry this morning?" He replied: " Yes — what is the use of one's 
dying before his time comes ?" Soon he went to the rolling up of a 



DAYID MARKS. 145 

log building — continued cheerful through the day, and occasional- 
ly sung songs ; but a little before sunset, a log on which he sat at 
the top of the building, began to roll. He saw that he must fall, 
yet being strong and active, seemed to think he should escape dan- 
ger, and cried with his usual cheerfulness, " Take care boys." 
These were his last words ; for as soon as he reached the ground 
the log fell on his head. He could neither speak nor move, but 
looked wishfully on his friends, and died in fifteen minutes. Thus 
he found that his time had come " as a thief in the night" When 
leaving home in the morning, he stopped a little distance from the 
door, in which his wife was standing with their only child, looked 
at them a minute in silence, then returning, kissed the child, and 
left his little family forever ! But, ah ! how little did he think he 
had heard his last sermon — that the last day of his life had come, 
and the Judge was standing at the door ! May this be a warning 
to the ungodly. I visited the fatal spot immediately, and guided 
by a bloody path, followed the body of this unfortunate youth to a 
neighboring dwelling, where with keen sympathies I witnessed 
the agonies of his companion and numerous relatives, who wept as 
though they had no remaining comfort. Then I said, " Man is 
like to vanity : his days are as a shadow that passeth away" 

Nov. 4, 1825, closed twenty years of my life, and it was a day 
of much reflection and solemnity. As it was the wish of the rel- 
atives, I preached the funeral sermon of the young man that had 
been called away so suddenly. A numerous congregation attend- 
ed and about thirty mourners wept at the grave of their deceased 
friend ; while the multitude that stood around dropped many a tear. 
I never was present on a more impressive occasion. " Blessed is 
the man that ' is ready :' " for u man hioiceth not his time" 

After this I attended a few meetings in these parts, and formed 
some acquaintance with several brethren of the Wayne quarterly 
meeting, which had been just organized. The number of mem- 
bers was small, yet there appeared to be some humble, faithful 
souls among them. I enjoyed some interesting seasons, yet gener- 
ally my spirit continued in bondage, and my labors still seemed to 
be almost useless. But as I was confident my commission had been 
received from the Lord, I dared not forbear to warn the wicked. 
I continued my journey to New York, and held several meetings 
by the way, still laboring under trials, and doubting whether I 
should ever again enjoy the settled peace that once blessed my 
soul. Yet the oath that I made on the day of my espousal, was 
engraven on my heart, and I felt no inclination to violate it ; but 
when tempted to give up my hope, I would say in the language of 
Peter : " Lord, to whom shall I go ? thou hast the words of eter- 
nal life." At Hanover, N. Y., I took my gig which I left there 
13 



146 MEMOIRS OF 

when going to Ohio, and proceeding on my way homeward, held a 
few meetings in the western part of the state. 

About the first of Dec., 1825, I arrived at my father's in Juni- 
us, having been absent about fourteen months, and was received 
affectionately. 



CHAPTER XIV. 

My Trials and Labors for seven months after my return from 

Ohio. 

My soul continued in a furnace of affliction. My hours passed 
in gloom, and my days were numbered in much sorrow. I attend- 
ed one or two meetings in adjacent towns, but such heaviness op- 
pressed me, that I felt confident my labor was in vain. My de- 
pression increased, and I dreaded to visit my brethren, expecting 
they would be greatly disappointed in me — and their disappoint- 
ment I thought would fill me with anguish. Believing my life was 
of little use to the church or to the world, and thinking it matter- 
ed little where I spent my time, I engaged a school in my father's 
neighborhood, and commenced teaching about the 10th of December. 
I made stated appointments twice a week in this vicinity, and once 
a week in an adjacent neighborhood, and occasionally preached in 
other places, particularly in Galen. Great darkness covered the 
people : — Often I went to my appointments with a heavy heart, 
and returned with the burden still increased. I enjoyed the socie- 
ty of my father's family, and my three brothers attended the school. 
These were pleasant temporal privileges, but they could not make 
me happy while my Savior hid his face, and I could not see sin- 
ners turning to God. In solitary places I wept, and prayed the 
Lord once more to dispel my darkness and shine into my heart ; 
but still I found no answer to my petitions. I read the Lamenta- 
tions of the prophet Jeremiah, and applied such passages as these 
to my case : "lam the man that hath seen affliction by the rod of 
his wrath. He hath led me and brought me into darkness but not 
into light. Surely against me is he turned ; he turneth his hand 
against me all the day. He hath set me in dark places as they 
that be dead of old. He hath hedged me about that I cannot get 
out : He hath made my chain heavy. Also when I cry and shout 
he shutteth out my prayer. — And I said, My strength and my 
hope is perished from the Lord." Lam. 3:1 — 8, 18. Still, in this 



DAVID MARKS. 147 

state of affliction, I knew God was just in all his ways, and that 
he would be just, if for my unfaithfulness and my sins, he should 
hide his face forever. Yet the Lord strengthened me, so that I 
felt no inclination to abandon the cause of Christ, or yield my hope 
in the promises of God : but I did seriously think of retiring from 
a public life ; for all my preaching seemed like " sounding brass, 
or a tinkling cymbal." I reviewed my experience and evidences 
of acceptance with God. I could not reject them. Again I exam- 
ined my evidences of having been called to preach the gospel. I 
could not disbelieve. And now what could I do ? This commis- 
sion was not " a light thing" that I might lay aside by my own will ; 
and as the mandate, " Go ye — and preach the gospel" had not been 
repealed, I dared make no other conclusion than this ; that I would 
preach according to my ability, and leave the event with God. I 
tried to content myself by reflecting on the Scripture that saith : 
" No chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but griev- 
ous : nevertheless, afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of 
righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." And though 
no animation or joy should ever again cheer my countenance, I re- 
solved to live at the feet of my Savior, and I said with the Psalm- 
ist : " Whom have I in heaven but thee ? and there is none upon 
earth that I desire besides thee" 

In January, 1826, I left my school to attend the Benton quarter- 
ly meeting, held at Flint Creek, in Middlesex. During my visit to 
Ohio, there had been a great revival in this vicinity, and nearly 
one hundred had been baptized in the town by Elder Wire. I 
expected the converts would be generally present ; and should I 
speak in the meeting, my testimony would be cold and useless. So 
I concluded to be a disconsolate spectator, and entered the crowd- 
ed assembly, hoping to find a seat in some corner, and pass unob- 
served. But immediately every eye was fixed on me, and the 
countenances of all seemed to tell, that they had heard of " the 
boy preacher" in the days of his gladness ; and that now they ex- 
pected to hear for themselves. I thought within myself, " Alas ! 
you will he disappointed — and this assembly will spy out my bar- 
renness." The preacher who was addressing the people, stopped 
and invited me to take a seat with the ministers. I was filled with 
confusion, hid my face, and wept on account of the poverty of my 
soul. After becoming a little composed, I looked around on the 
assembly, and saw perhaps one hundred happy converts. They 
were singing one of the songs of Zion — heaven seemed to shine in 
their countenances — and for a few minutes, my soul was melted 
and charmed with the beautiful sight. After this they spoke in 
quick succession and with much power ; but it reminded me of a 
touching contrast — the difference between their state and mine. 



148 MEMOIRS OF 

Again my poverty pressed upon me, as a burden that was insup- 
portable, and I wept as though my tears were a fountain. At 
length I arose and began to speak ; — my heart broke' — and, " Glo- 
ry to God," in this very hour the winds of Heaven began to blow 
on my soul. The clouds that had covered me five months, now 
fled away. The glory of God beamed upon me, and again I tast- 
ed the happiness that had formerly gladdened my spirit. O, how 
easy it was to speak the word of the Lord. A few hours after 
this, I willingly accepted an invitation to preach. It seemed as 
though all I had to do was to receive the word immediately from 
God, and speak it to the people. The assembly was greatly melt- 
ed, and I felt myself exceedingly abased and humbled before God. 
His presence was glorious and awful. After this, many spoke, and 
we enjoyed a refreshing time. Now it seemed as though I was in 
a new world ; and my joy for this deliverance was inexpressible. 

Why I had been thus forsaken of the Lord, had been a query 
which I was unable to solve. But now it appeared to me that 
God had especially designed this visitation for the trial of my faith, 
and to strengthen others. As Whitfield says, " Ministers should 
be tempted in all things like unto their brethren, that they may be 
able experimentally to succor those that are tempted." Again, I 
found that this affliction had worked for my good, in that it had 
weaned me from the world, taught me to feel my dependence on 
God, and had humbled my pride. 

On the Sabbath, meeting was appointed in two places, but the 
heart of the people was together, and they crowded into one assem- 
bly. This was a day of Emmanuel's power, and a time of great 
joy. Again it fell to my lot to speak to the people, and I feared 
that my clouds would return ; but it pleased the Lord to give me 
as much freedom as I enjoyed the day before, and again, in my 
own sight, I sunk down as nothing before the Lord. O blessed be 
his name, for his great mercy to an unworthy child. After 
meeting, I returned to my school happy in God. Now I regretted 
that I had engaged the school, for the Lord's harvest appeared in- 
viting, and I wished to be laboring therein. In my public commu- 
nications, however, the Spirit gave me freedom, and I enjoyed 
much peace in opening and closing my school by prayer, and in 
frequently speaking to my scholars. 

In the early part of March, I was called to sit on a council of 
business in Sodus, appointed by the Benton quarterly meeting. 
The council proposed to set me apart to the work whereunto the 
Lord had called me. This was unexpected. Considering my 
youth, and that the request had not been presented by the church 
of which I was a member, I was doubtful respecting my duty. 
But after making supplication to God for direction, the minister of 



DAVID MARKS. 149 

the church in Junius being present, I consented to their proposal 
on the 5th of March, 1826. After my return to Junius, the church 
accepted my new credentials and gave me a letter accordingly. 
Shortly afterward, on the day appointed for communion in Junius, 
it unexpectedly fell to my lot to break bread to the church. This 
being a duty that had not before devolved on me, the cross was 
considerable, and I cried to the Lord for assistance. Language 
cannot describe how unworthy I felt to officiate in the ordinances 
of God's house, particularly in the holy supper. With a trembling 
hand I moved forward to handle the symbols of my dear Savior's 
broken body, and in doing this my soul was strengthened and bless- 
ed. God's presence was in the meeting, and we had the witness 
that our fellowship was with the Father, and witli his Son Jesus 
Christ. 

About the 15th of March, I closed my school, and to some of 
my scholars, as well as myself, it was a solemn day. I looked on 
the children that had been three months under my care, and re- 
flected on the change that twenty years would make. How many 
would then be in the tomb — and how many of those who should 
survive would be scattered. I prayed that they might be prepar- 
ed for the scenes of the future. Solemn was the thought, that my 
words and examples had made impressions, that would be remem- 
bered by them long after I should be laid in the grave. So, I 
prayed that wherein I had erred, the Lord would forgive ; and that 
those deeds which I had wrought in the light of God, might be en- 
graven on their hearts, and instrumental of good to their souls. . 
Two of my scholars had for some time appeared serious, and though 
they did not as yet submit to the cross, I hoped these impressions 
would terminate in their reconciliation to God. 

In the latter part of the month, I went to Ontario, Penfield, and 
Perinton, and enjoyed some refreshing meetings with the churches 
in these towns. In some instances the glory of the Lord shone 
round about us. We witnessed a few cases of awakening, and 
conviction followed a small number till they were converted,. 
While I was in these towns several communicated liberally to my 
temporal necessities. 

After holding meetings in several other towns, I returned to Juni- 
us, preached a few times, and then, in company with my eldest 
brother, visited my sister in Ithaca. Here I parted with my broth- 
er, who was to start immediately for Michigan. We had spent the 
winter together, and the reflection that probably we should never 
enjoy each other's society in a like opportunity, increased the pain- 
ful interest of this occasion. As my brother went out of my sight,. 
I thought within myself, " thus children soon grow up into life, and 
like the young birds of the nest, are scattered in the world." 
13* 



150 MEMOIRS OF 

After preaching at Ithaca, I visited several other towns within 
the limits of the Owego quarterly meeting, preached the word to 
many congregations, and enjoyed the witness that my labor was not 
in vain in the Lord. I held two meetings in the town of Ithaca, at 
the house of Esq. Dean, about three miles from the village. A 
revival had just gladdened the hearts of many in this vicinity, and 
these meetings were blessed with the presence of the Lord. One 
desired baptism. This ordinance I had never yet administered, 
A meeting for the purpose was appointed on the 9th of May, 1826, 
The day was pleasant and the earth was arrayed in all the loveli- 
ness of spring. Previous to the hour appointed, I retired to a beau- 
tiful pine grove, and spent a little time entreating the Lord to stand 
by me this day and strengthen me for the solemn work before me. 
I received much comfort, and went to the meeting very happy. 
The Lord enabled me to speak with much boldness, and caused his 
Spirit to move on the assembly. The candidate related her expe- 
rience, and received the approbation of the brethren; then we 
walked to the water, and with feelings of deep self-abasement, I 
administered the ordinance, and was greatly blessed. 

From Ithaca I passed between the Cayuga and Seneca lakes, 
crossed the latter from Ovid to Milo, and after holding several 
meetings in different towns I attended the Benton quarterly meet- 
ing in Middlesex, on the 12th and 13th of May, 1826. The as- 
sembly was large ; many brethren and converts were present, and 
w r e were favored with a heavenly season. At this meeting, I as- 
sisted in ordaining a brother to the work of an evangelist. After 
this I visited the brethren in Groveland and Geneseo, and held a 
few meetings ; then attended the Bethany quarterly meeting at Ladd's 
corner in Clarkson, May 20 and 21. I think twelve preachers at- 
tended ; a large number of brethren were present, and a congrega- 
tion of about one thousand people. The preaching was interest- 
ing, and the season profitable ; but to me it was a time of trial. 
Thinking it my duty to address the people, I named a text and 
proceeded for a time with some embarrassment. Presently a con- 
fusion in the meeting, and the circumstance of several leaving the 
assembly, increased my difficulty ; the enemy took advantage, and 
I feared that I had mistaken duty. From the restless state of the 
congregation, I supposed the people did not wish to hear me — my 
spirit sunk, and before my discourse was half finished I took my 
seat. The information was given me, that the confusion in the as- 
sembly had been occasioned by a man who was intoxicated ; yet 
my conflict became great. I doubted whether the Lord had ever 
called me to preach — and my trial seemed greater than I could 
bear. As I went from the meeting, I vented my grief in bitter 
weeping, yet this did not assuage the sorrow that filled my bosom, 



DAYID MARKS. 151 

Elder Jenkins tried to comfort me, but I replied, " Such is my bar- 
renness that I cannot preach : I would be willing to preach, if my 
labors could be instrumental of the conversion of any souls, or of 
any good to Zion; but they are cheaper than the dust, and I can- 
not think it is my duty to attempt to preach, while so little good, 
attends my efforts." He replied, " Brother Marks, you do not 
know what good may arise from your labors, though now you may 
see no fruits. God has commanded you to preach, and you must 
preach, or be damned." His remark had no effect to relieve me of 
my burden. I went to a wood, and laid myself on the ground far 
from the hearing of any, and there for a long time, gave vent to 
my anguish. My life appeared to me useless, and I thought I 
should hardly again desire to see the face of man. But after con- 
sidering the subject, and not being able to persuade myself that 
God had not called me to labor in his vineyard, I thought if the 
Lord would hide me in the grave, this would be pleasant. Yet as 
I saw no alternative, I resolved to cast my care on Jesus, and sub- 
mit to my duty amid all my poverty of soul. When the dews of 
the evening began to fall, I returned pensive to the house of a 
friend, where some dear brethren endeavored to persuade me that 
this fiery trial would only purify me, and fit me for greater enjoy- 
ment and usefulness. A faint hope that this might be the effect, 
caused my sorrow gradually to subside. I had an appointment 
next morning in a neighborhood called Cook's settlement, and there 
preached the remaining part of my discourse that was left unfin- 
ished at the quarterly meeting. The Lord unveiled the beauties 
of Ins face, gave me his free Spirit, and accompanied the word to 
the heart of the hearers. My late trials vanished like dew before 
the sun, and my peace became like the flowing of a gentle river. 

Leaving Clarkson, I preached a few times in Groveland, and about 
the last of May held several meetings in North Penfield. In 
some of these, the Spirit of the Lord was manifested gloriously, 
the children of the King were made happy, and some of them 
shouted for joy. On the fourth of June, after meeting, we resort- 
ed to a beautiful beach on the shore of lake Ontario, to attend the 
ordinance of baptism. After prayer the brethren sung a hymn, 
and were greatly animated by the good Spirit. I then led the con- 
vert into very clear water, and my soul enjoyed a great blessing in 
the performance of this duty. As we " came up out of the water," 
the candidate was very happy and praised the Lord aloud. After 
this, some were awakened in our meetings to seek the Lord, and 
a small number professed to find " the pearl of great price." 

Near the middle of June, I attended a general meeting of the 
Christian order in Mendon. Here I heard Elder Capron preach, 
that the destruction with which the wicked shall be punished, will 



152 MEMOIRS OF 

effect an end of their being. Another minister, who had come 
from the south, preached, that " we are not to be forgiven for 
Christ's sake." I was attached to this denomination, because I be- 
lieved them to be an humble, Christian people, whom the Lord had 
blessed to the conversion of many. As a people, they had ever 
treated me with Christian affection, and I had expected to find 
food to my soul in this meeting. But by hearing these doctrines 
preached, and argued without contradiction, my mind was brought 
into a trial. I conversed with some of the preachers, and objected 
to these ideas, supposing they were not generally approved by the 
denomination; and remarked, that I had expected some of the 
preachers would publicly oppose them. One of the ministers re- 
plied, " Brother Marks, I will tell you plainly, that I do not believe 
God will fry the wicked eternally in hell." I was shocked by the 
expression, and this representation of the Bible doctrine, that the 
wicked " shall be cast into the lake of fire" I asked him whether 
he believed the doctrine of annihilation, or of restoration ? He 
declined giving me any answer, except saying, that he believed all 
the Bible taught on this subject. Some of the preachers that were 
present, however, disapproved of these sentiments. But what 
created the greatest trial, was, the remark that we were not to be 
forgiven for Christ's sake, together with the arguments that accom- 
panied it. If I understood the doctrine of this sermon, it was, that 
nothing had been merited by the sufferings of Christ in behalf of 
sinners — and that God, the Father, pardons men, not by virtue 
of any atonement made by Christ — but merely because the sinner 
repents and God is good. By this doctrine, it appeared that Christ 
had acted only by a delegated power, and that he had done nothing- 
more for the salvation of men, than any other prophet, except that 
he was the mediator of a greater dispensation. From these ideas, 
the following queries were suggested : " If Jesus be not the true 
God, why should we worship him ? Why should the angels worship 
him ? Why should God give directions that any other being than 
himself should be worshipped ? Why should the Father require 
that Jesus should be worshipped because God hath worked by him, 
rather than that Moses should be worshipped, because God wrought 
wonders by him ?" After reflecting a little while on these queries, 
this Scripture, like Sinai's thunder, came to my mind : " Thou shalt 
worship the Lord thy God, and Him only shalt thou serve." Matt. 
4: 10. At this instant, all nature seemed to declare the inconsis- 
tency of worshipping, or of giving divine honors to any other be- 
ing, than " the only living and true God" It seemed to me, if 
Jesus be not God, and yet have divine honors given him, because 
of his high mission, on the same principle, all the prophets, apos- 
tles, and persons sent of God, should also receive divine honors, 



DAVID MARKS. 153 

proportionate to the extent of their mission. Notwithstanding 
these reflections, I knew not what to believe of Jesus Christ. For 
the Unitarian arguments had so influenced my belief, and so 
formed the connection of my thoughts, that I supposed the doc- 
trine that Jesus Christ is the true God, could not be proved from 
the Scriptures. Indeed, to this sentiment, I thought there were 
unanswerable objections. On the other hand, I could see no pro- 
priety in worshipping any being except the true God. And on 
this principle, the Scriptures now appeared to be involved in great 
obscurity. 

" When Unitarian unbelief, I think, 

Took hold of Peter, he began to sink ; 

Our Lord, as if surprised at this, cried out, 

'O, thou of little faith, why didst thou doubt ?' 

Let this reproof suffice for every one 

That doubts the power of God's beloved Son." 

I was now like a ship without mast or helm, committed to the 
merciless waves. At this time I had appointments to preach in 
Penfield, Perinton, and in other towns. But how could I meet 
them? I knew not what to preach, nor what to believe ! I attend- 
ed them, however, and thought myself safe in restricting my re- 
marks on this subject to the language of the Scriptures, though 
their meaning to me was obscure. I read the Bible day and night, 
and was much in secret prayer. But while I prayed, awful doubts 
troubled me, and great darkness veiled my mind, so that like the 
darkness of Egypt, I thought it could be felt. 

Infidelity had no charms. But alas ! I saw no way to avoid its 
principles, unless I could believe that Jesus Christ is truly God. 
My whole soul could but shrink from the idea of two gods — the 
Father, the only living and true God, and my Savior consequently 
a dead and false god ! But how could two persons be one being ? 
Alas ! my difficulties were very serious, and I feared, lest they 
should force me to infidelity. I wished, unbiassed by the prejudi- 
ces of education, to believe and know the truth. I resolved to 
cease preaching, unless I could discern the truth of the gospel. I 
could see no way to escape the gloomy forebodings of infidelity: — 
I regretted that I had received ordination. I remembered that the 
council seemed to have some hesitancy, because my sentiments 
with regard to the character of Christ were not sufficiently settled ; 
but considering my youth as an apology, they concluded to lay 
hands on me, believing I would become established in the truth. 
It now seemed that I should disappoint their hopes. Again I recol- 
lected the many souls that I had seen converted, — the happy sea- 
sons I had enjoyed with the saints, — and I thought, how can I 
wound those kind friends ? how can I disappoint the hopes of my 
brethren ? — and can* I bid such happy scenes an eternal farewell ? 



154 MEMOIRS OF 

Yet, I said within myself, I cannot be a hypocrite — and if Heaven 
do not remove these doubts, and open the way before me, I must — 
I will retire from the church. But then, alas ! how can I endure 
the presence of my Christian friends ! If this should be my un- 
happy condition, I will leave this land — hide myself in the wilder- 
ness of the west, and there dwell in obscurity till death. Now the 
gloom of infidelity rushed upon me, like an overwhelming flood. 
What ! no Savior ? — No sure guide ! — Life a scene of sorrow ! — 
Death an eternal sleep ! * * * * * * 

From the evidences of Christianity, and from my own experi- 
ence, I could find nothing to confirm an unhallowed doubt. My 
trials originated solely from my Unitarian views of the character 
of Christ I opened my mind to brother Thomas Parker, a 
preacher of our connexion in Perinton. He tried to encourage 
and strengthen me ; and, as he has since told me, after we separa- 
ted, he went into a wood and prayed a long time with many tears, 
that I might be saved from the snare of infidelity. I attended my 
previous appointments, gave out no more, and doubted whether I 
should ever attempt to preach again. I continued to search the 
Scriptures, and to pray the Lord for deliverance. But my way 
was all closed up, and I considered much on the manner in which 
I might retire from a public life. I thought, however, before I 
made any new conclusions, I would visit Elder J. N. Hinckley, 
and lay my case before him. He had been an atheist for eight 
years previous to his conversion, and I looked to him for counsel 
as to a father in Zion. After telling him all my doubts, he said, 
" Brother Marks, you study too much, you travel too much, and 
you preach too much. The mind is as easily wearied as the body ; 
and yours is so much wearied, that you know not what you are, or 
where you are. By abstinence, the perception of the mind is 
quickened, and you must moderate till you become rested and 
calm." He then took me to his mills, fields, &c, and conversed 
freely on many subjects, but declined saying any thing on the sub- 
ject, which for two weeks had engrossed my whole attention. Af- 
ter passing the greater part of a day in this manner, he took me to 
a room alone with him, and taking his Bible, asked me if I would 
believe Jesus Christ to be God, provided he would prove that he 
created the world ? Without hesitation, I answered in the affirma- 
tive ; but being prepossessed with the Unitarian argument, that 
the Father made the world by Christ, as an agent only, I did not 
expect the proof proposed. He began to read the first chapter of 
Paul's epistle to the Hebrews. I had committed this chapter to 
memory, and thinking all the ideas it contained had been previous- 
ly considered, I supposed that neither the 8th and 9th verses, " Thy 
throne, O God, is for ever and ever," &c, nor any part of the chap- 



DAVID MARKS. 155 

ter, could affect my mind. But when he came to the tenth verse, 
where the Father still addresses the Son, he put his finger oh it, 
and read with emphasis, " And thou, Lord, in the beginning hast 
laid the foundation of the earth, and the heavens are the works of 
thy hands" Before he had concluded the reading of this sentence, 
cold chills began to pass over me — and bursting into tears, like un- 
believing Thomas, I exclaimed within myself, " My Lord and my 
God!" 

From this moment, faith began to revive in my soul. Elder 
Hinckley now remarked on the objection which I had presented, 
viz., that " the Son of God could not be the Father, or God him- 
self. Said he, " A river proceeding from a lake cannot be called 
the lake itself, yet the stream may be called water, and the fountain 
water ; and one is as truly water as the other, because the sub- 
stance in the two bodies is the same. So, a son of man receives 
from the parent a perfect human nature, the entire nature of his 
species ; — yet this makes not another nature, nor another species of 
being; but the nature and species in the father and in the son are 
the same, though in two persons. In like manner, i the only begot- 
ten of the Father,' possesses the nature of the Father, inherent and 
entire ; and this nature, or divine substance of the Son, is as just- 
ly called God, as the divine fountain from which it proceeded." It 
might be improper here to relate the chain of reflections in full, 
and the passages of Scripture that raised me from the borders of 
infidelity. Suffice it to say, that the tenth verse of the first chap- 
ter of Hebrews, commenced my convincement ; and that by a 
close examination of the Scriptures, my faith increased, and I was 
brought firmly to believe that Jesus is truly " God ivith us" And 
to this day I have never doubted in saying of Him, a This is the 
true God, and eternal life" 1 John 5:20.* 

After this I related to Elder Elijah Shaw, a preacher of the 
Christian order, the particulars of my convincement, that Jesus our 
Savior, is as truly God as is the Father. He replied, " When you 
became established in this sentiment, you became established in a 
blessed good sentiment." 

I now returned to Penfield and Perinton, greatly comforted, and 
enjoyed some favored seasons in preaching the Lord Jesus, as the 
only " name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be 
saved." 

* When I attended the New Hampshire yearly meeting at Weare, in the year 1824, I 
heard Elder Enoch Place preach on the character of Christ. The doctrine distilled like 
the dew, and I was greatly delighted till I heard his concluding sentence, "This is the 
eternal God, and besides Him there is no Savior.*' This sentence damped my joy, and 
caused cold chills to pass over me ; yet at this instant I observed the assembly dropped 
as it were a flood of tears*, and that which so chilled my feelings, was sanctioned by 
the sound of " Amen," from many voices. But since the time I cried of my Savior with 
unbelieving Thomas, "My Lord and my God," this doctrine has been sweet to my soul. 



156 MEMOIRS OP 

CHAPTER XV. 

Particulars of my Labors from July, 182 6, to September, 1827. 

In July, 1826, I spent several weeks in Ontario, and preached in 
different neighborhoods. I had the satisfaction of seeing frequent 
instances of conviction, and was often filled with joy, while I saw 
the saints happy, and sometimes heard sinners cry for mercy. 
Among those that were awakened, was an interesting young man, 
the son of a Quaker,* and three young ladies, that were school 
teachers. They were the first that publicly confessed their desire 
to find Jesus. These and several others were soon brought into 
liberty, and rejoiced to take the cross and follow Christ. Sabbath, 
July 23, I had an appointment in the north part of Ontario for 
baptism. The Lord gave me freedom, and many appeared quite 
solemn. The wind having raised the waves on lake Ontario, so 
that baptism could not be attended to in this place, we proceeded 
four or live miles west, to an inlet, where I baptized two. As I 
came out of the water, I was very happy, and began to exhort a 
young man that was a Universalist, to repent and believe in Christ. 
His reply only evinced his impenitence, and showed how little his 
doctrine influenced him to " the fear of the Lord." 

In the latter part of July, I preached in several towns west of 
Rochester, and in the early part of Aug. went east as far as Juni- 
us, and preached in many places. I also visited several churches 
of the Benton quarterly meeting, and attended the August term of 
said meeting, which was held in Italy. A large number of people 
and brethren convened in a pleasant grove. The preaching was 
spiritual, and many said it was one of the best quarterly meetings 
they ever attended. I never shall forget how solemn my soul felt 
while preaching the word, neither how some shouted, that I thought 
would not do thus in a public assembly. Still my heart said, 
" Let the inhabitants of the Rock sing ; let them shout." During 
three weeks following this meeting, I visited several churches, 
preached in different towns, and enjoyed some refreshing sea- 
sons. 

August 26 and 27, 1826, 1 attended the sixth session of the Hol- 
land Purchase yearly meeting, held in Ontario. The Ontario 
quarterly meeting, which had been organized from the Benton 
quarterly meeting in the autumn previous, was at this time receiv- 
ed into the yearly meeting. It contained eight churches, five or- 
dained preachers, and about one hundred members. At this meet- 

* This young man subsequently became a useful minister. 



DAVID MARKS. 157 

ing I first saw brother Thomas Huckins, from London, Upper 
Canada. He came a distance of two hundred and fifty miles to 
attend this meeting, with a request for me to visit that province. 
At this time there was but one Free-will Baptist church in Upper 
Canada. This was situated in Dunwich, one hundred and fifty 
miles west from Niagara river. Several years ago, brother Huck- 
ins, with two or three families of Free-will Baptists, removed from 
New Hampshire and Lower Canada, into this town. For some 
years they endeavored to content themselves by enjoying religious 
privileges with other denominations ; but not finding with them 
that liberty which they wished to enjoy, about eight persons, for 
the space of many months, held separate conference meetings, and 
were called Free-will Baptists. About the year 1821, they sent a 
man two hundred and fifty miles into New York for help. Elder 
Jenkins went to them immediately, and gave them the hand of fel- 
lowship as a church. Brother Huckins had lately commenced 
preaching, and at this meeting related his call to the ministry, and 
received a letter of commendation. Two ministers and myself were 
appointed to visit the province immediately. 

The meetings of worship were interesting. The preaching was 
blessed to the awakening of some who never rested till they found 
salvation. The revival that had commenced in this town previous 
to the meeting, started anew, and continued till one hundred or 
more, if I mistake not, were converted. Among these was Free- 
born W. Straight, the young man whom I addressed a month be- 
fore, when coming up out of the water after baptism. 

Sabbath, Sept. 3, I preached in Ontario, and the heavenly cloud 
seemed to be spreading fast. The cries of the awakened, and the 
entreaties of the converts, that I should stay and labor with them, 
made me almost regret having engaged to leave the town. But, 
believing duty called, I left them, praying that they might " seek 
the Lord till He come and rain righteousness upon" them. With 
solemn feelings I turned my course toward Junius, and called on a 
young woman in Palmyra, that attended my school the winter 
previous. Having been sick several months, she had come to this 
place to receive medical aid, and had requested this visit, expecting 
it would be the last. She observed to me, " My physicians have 
given me over — in a few days I expect to die, and I have no hope 
in Christ ! When I attended your school, your exhortations often 
reached my heart ; and though I felt their weight, and often wept 
for my sins, still the pride of my heart prevented me from submit- 
ting to the cross. Had I yielded to conviction, I might have had 
salvation. But now, alas ! it is too late ! I think I have but a few 
days to spend in pain, and then I shall sink to everlasting misery !" 
I asked her if she was willing to kneel while prayer should be 
U 



158 MEMOIRS OF 



made for her. She answered, " Yes ;" and we bowed before the 
Lord. I enjoyed unusual freedom in prayer, and thought the Lord 
gave me a witness that she should receive the pardon of her sins. 
In the mean time she began to weep, and her sorrow and cries 
seemed enough to touch the hardest heart. She arose, and wept 
till her strength failed — the cold sweat stood on her face, and she 
became still as though she were dead. We were alarmed, and for 
a moment feared the consequences. Soon, however, she revived, 
but shortly fell away again as before. Thus she apparently faint- 
ed five times in quick succession. My faith that she would be con- 
verted was shaken, and I seriously feared that instead thereof, she 
would die immediately. While we were looking in fearful sus- 
pense, she revived again, and seeing her sister, she inquired, " Why 
do you look on me so intently ?" Her sister asked if she did not 
know that she had fainted. She said, u I am well — where am I ?" 
Being told she was where she had usually been, she could scarcely 
believe it, and said, " I never was in a place so beautiful as this — 
every thing shines like gold." Addressing her sister, and other 
friends that stood around, she said, "How beautiful you are! — I 
never loved you so before — O, how happy I am ! I believe the 
Lord has forgiven me all my sins. Blessed be his name." The 
next morning she remarked, "Many a night have I spent weep- 
ing for fear of the punishment that awaited me ; but last night I 
could not sleep, because of the heavenly joy that filled my soul ; 
for the goodness of the Lord appeared so wonderful, that I could 
but praise him all the night." Walking out, she exclaimed, " O, 
how beautiful is the face of the earth, and every thing that meets 
my sight ! This appears like a new world !" As I was about to 
leave, she said to me, " Brother Marks, before you go to Canada, 
I wish to return to Junius, confess Christ before my associates, and 
"be baptized. Then I can die in peace." 

On my arrival at Junius, I understood the young woman had 
been removed to her father's, and that she scarcely waited to in- 
quire after the health of her friends and associates, before she told 
them what great things the Lord had done for her soul. I attend- 
ed a meeting at her father's house, and immediately after the ser- 
mon, she sat upon the bed side, supported by two female friends, 
and in a solemn, impressive manner, related her experience. She 
then requested the assembly to look on her feeble form, and take 
warning. Said she, " I feel it my duty to be baptized to-morrow, 
and in a few days I expect you will see this frame wrapped in a 
shroud, and will follow me to the grave. O, remember what I tell 
you, and no longer neglect the Savior." She exhorted the wicked 
for some minutes, and her testimony was like a sharp sword. Many 
in the assembly wept, and four young people came forward for prayer. 



, 



DAVID MARKS. 159 

On the day following, a meeting was appointed for baptism a 
mile and a half from her father's. Two circumstances made this a 
time of trembling to me. I had lived in this neighborhood from the 
age of nine years, and had never baptized any in the place. Be- 
sides, the candidate was so feeble that she could not sit up an hour 
without fainting, and some of the brethren thought it would endan- 
ger her life. Others were of opinion that she would probably die 
in the performance of it. She would not, however, submit to their 
entreaties, but said, " It is my duty to follow my Lord in baptism, 
and he will support me." I never realized more the need of di- 
vine assistance than on this occasion ; and I was much in fervent 
prayer till the time came. The candidate was placed on pillows 
and blankets in a chair, and brought slowly to the meeting. When 
she arrived, many, on seeing her pale face bound with a white 
handkerchief, burst into tears. She was laid on a bed, and the ex- 
ercises commenced. I felt all the solemnity while speaking to the 
people that I ever had on a funeral occasion. Nor did the assem- 
bly seem to be less impressed. Another young woman that had 
attended my school, and had also obtained a hope in Christ, now 
related her experience, and was received for baptism. Then the 
one that was sick stood up, supported by another female, and in a 
very solemn manner told how she had been convicted, how she had 
grieved the Spirit, and how God had forgiven all her sins. She 
spoke with much feeling of the happiness she now enjoyed, and ex- 
horted her gay companions to leave their sins, and set out with her 
for a better world. We proceeded slowly to the water, the dis- 
tance of a quarter of a mile, while many dropped their tears by the 
way. The sick candidate was seated in the chair, leaning back- 
ward to prevent her from fainting. Prayer was made to God to 
preserve her life, and strengthen her for the performance of this 
duty. The young woman that first related her experience was 
baptized, and came up out of the water rejoicing. The moment 
dreaded by many had now come, and I said, " Sister Jane, wilt 
thou be baptized ?" With heavenly serenity she answered, " Yes" 
— arose, gave me her hand, and walked deliberately into the stream. 
When she was raised out of the water, not a feature had changed, 
except that her face shone as though she had seen God. Now she 
was so happy that she seemed unwilling to leave the water. On 
being seated again, she received the right hand of fellowship, and 
a charge relative to the baptismal covenant. To these she emphat- 
ically added, " Amen." Many of the assembly were melted into 
tenderness, and I think will never forget this scene. After she 
had changed her apparel and received food, she remarked that she 
had not felt so well for a week before. From the hour of her bap- 
tism, she began to amend, and in a few weeks was entirely restor- 



100 MEMOIRS OF 

ed to health. For aught I know, she remains to this day, a lover 
and a witness of the grace of God. O, that men would praise the 
Lord for his wonderful works. 

At this time there appeared a good prospect of revival in this 
vicinity. But I was obliged to leave to fulfil my engagements, 
though with feelings much as I had on leaving Ontario. Passing 
through Benton quarterly meeting, I preached with several of the 
churches. In a neighborhood of Middlesex, some revival had 
just commenced, and again I was earnestly entreated to stay a few 
days. But continuing my journey I proceeded to Number Nine in 
Canandaigua. As I entered the house of brother Theodoras Bee- 
bee, he said, " Bless the Lord ; I am glad to see you ; — I believe 
God has sent you to this place." I sighed, knowing they would be 
disappointed on learning that I could remain but one day. I at- 
tended a meeting, and the Lord fastened conviction on the hearts 
of several. The next day I went to Groveland, and attended a 
meeting. My appointments had been given out on the way to 
Canada, but having two days' leisure, I returned to Canandaigua, a 
distance of thirty miles, and preached from Rom. 6:23, " The 
wages of sin is death." This was a solemn, weeping time. Sev- 
eral were awakened to seek the Lord, and afterward some dated 
their conviction from the reading of this text. Eight came for- 
ward for prayer, one of whom, a respectable young lady, cried as 
she arose, " God be merciful to me a sinner" The prospect of a 
revival in this vicinity, together with the impression that duty call- 
ed me to stay and attend to the work, made me regret having en- 
gaged to go to Canada. But as the engagement was conditional, 
" If the Lord will" I finally relinquished my intention of visiting 
the province, and concluded to go only as far as my appointments 
extended, and then return immediately. Proceeding west, I at- 
tended meetings in different towns, till I came to Lockport, one 
hundred miles. 

In this journey I called on a brother at Batavia, who told me 
that there was a great uproar among the people — that the Free 
Masons had kidnapped a man named William Morgan, of that town, 
who was publishing the secrets of Masonry, — that, although great 
efforts had been made to find him, it could not be found how they 
had disposed of him — and it was feared he had been murdered. 
He further stated, that on the night previous to his being taken 
from Batavia, the printing office that contained his disclosures rel- 
ative to Masonry, was set on fire a little after midnight, while ten 
persons were asleep in that building and another adjoining it, and 
that, had it not been accidentally discovered, those persons might 
have perished, and a considerable part of the village have been de- 
stroyed by the fire. He said also that on the day after Morgan 



DAVID MARKS. 161 

was seized, a mob of about sixty persons, who were mostly stran- 
gers, appeared at noon in Batavia, armed with clubs, and seized 
David C. Miller, a mason, who was printing Morgan's disclosures 
— took him to Strafford, and thence to Le Roy, where he was res- 
cued by his friends from Batavia. He said it had been understood 
that the Masons had determined Morgan's disclosures should be 
suppressed ; and that the printing office was guarded with cannon 
and small arms, and the people generally in readiness, expecting 
every hour to be called to action in defence of their townsman. 

These things were new to me, and it seemed unaccountable, that 
two weeks could have passed since the commencement of these out- 
rages, and the people generally in the towns fifteen miles- distant 
have heard nothing of it. Still I had a favorable opinion of Free 
Masonry, and thought it very strange that so large a number of 
masons could have been found to engage in such outrages. From 
the account that masons had given of the principles of their insti- 
tution, I supposed the fraternity would remove this stain upon their 
order, by expelling those who had been guilty of such crimes, and 
would use every effort to bring them to justice. As I passed from 
place to place, I related some particulars of these outrages, without 
the least idea of offending the masons. But, to my astonishment, 
I found that the relation of these facts generally displeased them ; 
and I was several times told, with angry looks, if I knew what was 
for my good, I would mind my own business, and let these things 
alone. I conversed with many masons about these occurrences, 
and they generally affected to believe it was all a speculation, and 
that Morgan had run away to make sale for his book. They inti- 
mated that Morgan had not revealed the secrets of Masonry — and 
many who were generally thought to be good men, said if he had 
disclosed the secrets of Masonry, " He ought to die" and " no death 
would be too bad for him." One man who was a professor of re- 
ligion, told me, if Morgan had revealed the secrets of the ordeiv 
he " could see him gibbeted in good conscience" 

I now met with one of my greatest trials — several of my breth- 
ren whom I highly esteemed were masons — yet unnumbered cir- 
cumstances compelled me to believe that Masonry approved of 
these outrages, and that the fraternity were combined to protect 
the criminals — to close the press against these facts — and to keep 
them as secret as possible. 

On my return to Canandaigua, I learned that one had been con- 
verted. I remained in this town for a time, preached daily, at- 
tended conference meetings, and visited and prayed from house to 
house. In almost every meeting there were some new instances 
of conviction, or of conversion and confession of Christ ; and soon 
I enjoyed the privilege of baptizing six converts. December, l r 
14* 



162 MEMOIRS OF 

1826, a church was formed. The members solemnly covenanted 
with each other to keep the perfect law, according to the grace giv- 
en them, and maintain gospel order and fellowship, agreeably to 
the Scriptures. 

The work of the Lord continued ; but while we were thus fa- 
vored, the enemies of the cross, by cruel slanders, tried to bring 
the subjects of the revival into contempt and disgrace. Yet the 
testimonies of Scripture, that "all that will live godly in Christ 
Jesus shall suffer persecution," and that "it is enough that the dis- 
ciple be as his Master," reconciled us to our lot, and made even 
the converts rejoice, that they were counted worthy to " suffer for 
Christ's* sake." On the 17th of Dec. I baptized two, and on the 
24th, three. Four of these were added to the church. 

During the revival, I frequently preached in other towns, and 
some of the meetings were blessed of the Lord. In the early part 
of January, 1827, I made a journey eastward as far as Utica, and 
held meetings with several churches of the Free Communion Bap- 
tists. This denomination is distinct from the Free-will Baptists. 
The principal difference is, that many of the Free Communion 
Baptists believe in what is called the "final perseverance of the 
saints" It is thought, however, that more than one half of the de- 
nomination exactly agree with the Free-will Baptists. Another 
difference is, they have a small number of articles ;, abstract from 
the Scriptures. Their churches are situated mostly in New York, 
and principally within one hundred miles west of Albany. Their 
exact number I cannot state, but probably they had in 1827, 
about forty churches and three thousand members. Not far from 
this time, their annual conference was divided into two, called the 
Northern and Southern conferences. The great western turnpike 
is the dividing line between them. I am of opinion, that if the 
Free Communion Baptists and the Free-will Baptists, should be- 
come acquainted with each other, they might become one people. 

In general they received me as a servant of the Lord. In one 
town, however, there was an exception. On a Sabbath that was 
appointed for communion, I attended their meeting, and was intro- 
duced to the preacher. He invited me into the pulpit, and after 
his sermon, asked me to conclude by prayer. Then leaving me 
in the desk, he prepared the table, and invited all that had a good 
standing in any Christian denomination, to come forward and par- 
take. Accordingly I desired the privilege, and offered to show my 
letters. He replied, "We do not wish to examine them; we do 
not doubt that your standing is good in the Frce-ivill Baptist de- 
nomination. But we have not as yet recognized the Free-will 
Baptists as a Christian denomination." I understood that a Uni- 
tarian preacher had been among them, falsely calling himself a 



DAVID MARKS. 163 

Free-will Baptist, and by this means had occasioned a division in 
the church. On this account they seemed to be afraid of me. 

On the evening of Jan. 22, I spoke to a crowded assembly in 
Fabius, and the Spirit of the Lord seemed to move on the people. 
A Free-will Baptist church had lately been gathered in the place, 
and they were enjoying a good season. Four converts having been 
received as candidates, they requested me to baptize them. As I 
had an appointment the day following at Spafford, I attended a meet- 
ing the next morning at sunrise. A considerable number were 
present, and unexpectedly two others related their experience and 
desired to be baptized. One of these was a little girl ; but her 
friends, though satisfied she had been converted, were unwilling 
she should be baptized, because she was but eight years of age. 
The snow was nearly three feet deep, and a tedious storm made it 
very unpleasant; however, we broke a path nearly a quarter of a 
mile, to a pond, where the ice had been cut for the occasion. After 
five were baptized, the little girl before named, turned to her fath- 
er, and bursting into tears said, " O, papa, do let me be baptized." 
He asked me if I thought it would be right. I replied, ' Yes ;' 
and he consented. Her tears dried up, a heavenly smile sat upon 
her countenance, and while she went forward in obedience to the 
command of Him who said, " Suffer little children to come unto 
me and forbid them not," her little heart seemed filled with joy. 

I proceeded toward Spafford, and not having a change of ap- 
parel with me, I rode all day with my clothes frozen, but took no 
cold. Night overtook me when I was within three miles of my ap- 
pointment, and the road was filled with drifts, so that I was oblig- 
ed to crawl on the snow. With difficulty I got along thus for near- 
ly a mile ; and on reaching the place found a crowded assembly. 
As I was much fatigued, I thought I should not speak over half an 
hour : but the Lord enabled me to speak, an hour and a half with 
considerable freedom. I next went to Canandaigua, and enjoyed 
some good seasons with the converts, who were much engaged. 

In February, 1827, I held meetings in Ontario, Penfield, Per- 
inton, Macedon, Canandaigua, Groveland, Clarkson, Parma, 80- 
dus, Lyons, Junius, Benton, Milo, Barrington, Jerusalem, and Mid- 
dlesex, and saw several converted. 

I spent a considerable part of March in Canandaigua, and the 
Lord favored us with some refreshings from his presence. The 
number of converts increased to thirty or thirty-five. Several of 
these joined the Calvinistic Baptists. About this time I took a 
dismission from the church in Junius, and became a member of 
the church at Canandaigua. In the latter part of the month, I vis- 
ited and preached in several other towns. 

Sabbath, April 1, was a pleasant day. Again the beauties of 



164 MEMOIRS OF 

spring began to appear, and the forest songsters to praise their 
Creator. Early in the morning I visited a young woman that had 
been sick four years. Till within a few days she had had no hope 
in the Savior to support her in her sickness. But now she was 
resigned in expectation of certain death. I preached in Ontario 
and Perinton. A young man spoke for the first time, and pro- 
fessed that he had found the one thing needful. 

April 2, 1 attended a debate that was appointed to be held be- 
tween a Calvinistic Baptist and a Universalist ; but the former 
being unwell, he desired me to take a part in the discussion. I 
complied, and enjoyed much peace of mind and freedom in speak- 
ing. Afterwards I understood that several were at this time con- 
vinced that such as die in their sins, shall " be driven aioay in their 
ivickedness." 

I next went to Attica, a distance of seventy miles, and enjoyed 
an interesting meeting, — thence to Pittsford, and stopped a night 
with a young man that had been a licensed preacher. But now he 
was fallen into a state of scepticism, and professed atheistical prin- 
ciples. I conversed with him — his mind appeared to be confused 
and gloomy, and from his conversation, I concluded that he had 
fallen into this state by neglecting to watch and pray, and by try- 
ing to " find out God to perfection." 

Monday, April 9, I left Canandaigua for Pennsylvania, having 
a line of appointments previously given out, I met assemblies the 
five days following, at Flint creek in Middlesex, at Jerusalem, 
Milo, Barrington, Jersey and Catlin. In the latter place, seven 
covenanted to seek the Lord, and some of them were soon after 
hopefully converted. 

April 1 6, I preached near Tioga river, in Pennsylvania. Here 
the Lord gave me great liberty ; blessed be his name. I also 
went to Delmar, held two meetings, and baptized one. After the 
baptism, several prayed, some cried for mercy, and two backsliders 
promised to return. I enjoyed a solemn meeting east of Wells- 
borough, and on Friday, April 20, went on my way toward Troy. 
Pa. I passed this day in much reflection and self-examination, and 
felt a great sense of my poverty, and a great desire for more of the 
mind that was in Christ Jesus. I had preached much to others, 
and feeling in a state to be profited by hearing the plain truth of 
God, I began preaching to myself, from Rom. 2:21, " Thou, there- 
fore, which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that 
preaehest a man should not steal, dost thou steal ?" I never felt 
so much convicted under any sermon in my life, and for miles, 
while travelling in the woods alone, I wept for my unworthiness. 
At length I fell on my face, and solemnly covenanted to dedicate 
myself more fully unto God. At a late hour I reached Troy, and 



DAVID MARKS. 165 

spoke with much freedom to a waiting congregation. I had a 
pleasant interview with Elder Asa Dodge. Religion was his whole 
theme. 

Sabbath, April 22, I preached in Smithfield ; some appeared af- 
fected, others inflexibly hard. Early next morning, the neighbor- 
hood was alarmed by the burning of a house and barn-. I under- 
stood that the father of the young men who owned the buildings, 
set fire to them, and thus destroyed one thousand or fifteen hun- 
dred dollars merely out of revenge. But alas ! sin will cause greater 
destruction than this ! On this day I rode thirty miles, and met 
an assembly in Owego. Elder Colby passed through this town 
seventeen years previous, and in his journal he writes of the place 
thus : " On leaving Tioga, I went down to Owego expecting to 
preach somewhere in the village that day ; but they would not re- 
ceive me. Of this village I can speak nothing favorable as to 
their religion or piety. I was credibly informed that there was 
not one Christian in the place, although it was a considerable vil- 
lage." But it had now three good meeting-houses, and many 
Christians ; and I understood that within the last ten days forty 
persons had obtained a hope in Christ. Thus the wilderness be- 
comes a fruitful field. During this week, I preached at Apalachi- 
an and Owego creeks, in Candor, Dryden, and Ithaca. In all 
these places I enjoyed good freedom. In Ithaca, nearly one hun- 
dred professed Christians were present. They appeared very 
plain and very humble. When I preached in this place a year 
previous, little attention was given to religion. Since that time, it 
was calculated that one thousand had been converted in the town. 
Five hundred had united with the Methodists, three hundred with 
the Presbyterians, and two hundred with other denominations. I 
was told, that in this revival judges, doctors, lawyers, merchants, 
&c. fell on their knees in the broad aisles, amid popular congrega- 
tions, and prayed to God for mercy. 

Sabbath, April 29, I attended a Baptist meeting between Cayu- 
ga and Seneca lakes, but no liberty was given for any to speak ex- 
cept the minister. Feeling the Spirit of the Lord upon me, I re- 
quested liberty ; but none being granted, I began, after the people 
went out, to address them on the green ; then, being desired to go 
into the meeting-house, we returned, and the Lord enabled me to 
speak with much freedom. Many in the assembly wept. After 
this, I went to Ovid, and finding an assembly just gathered, desir- 
ed the privilege of speaking to the people, which was granted. 
The Spirit of the Lord attended the word to the hearts of many, 
and several came forward for prayer. In the early part of May, 
I attended two meetings in Camillus, two in Spafford, and a two- 
days meeting in Fabius. The church in the latter place appeared 



166 MEMOIRS OF 

well engaged, and the opportunity was profitable. May 7, 1827, 
the ground was covered with snow. I made several visits, and the 
day following preached in Woodstock. The power of God was in 
the assembly, and fifteen or twenty manifested their desire to be- 
come the disciples of Christ. May 10, I had an appointment in 
the Baptist meeting house in Hamilton. A considerable assembly 
attended. Having for my hearers several students from the sem- 
inary, and many of the popular class, I was at first some embar- 
raised ; but, falling on my knees, I cried to the Lord for assistance 
— he heard me, and so filled me with his Spirit, that it appeared 
to me, the people were but " as grasshoppers" before God, and 
my fears of them were taken away. Some wept, and others 
shouted. 

Friday and Saturday, May 11 and 12, I held four meetings in 
Brookfield and Plainfield, and on the Sabbath met an assembly in 
Winfield. In the latter place, I spoke pointedly on the necessity 
of Christians being separate from the world. A popular preacher 
of the Seventh Day Baptists addressed the assembly, and told them 
they had heard the truth. The next day, after going north to 
Bridgwater, I staid a few hours, to witness the trial of several who 
had just been taken for passing counterfeit money. While I ob- 
served their joy and vanity at the genius displayed by their coun- 
sel, on whom they seemed to look as their only friend, I thought, 
alas ! poor creatures, unless you repent, who will brighten your 
countenances in the Judgment ? who will plead your cause in that 
last great day of trial ? Then you will be speechless — then you 
will receive an irrevokable sentence. And, alas ! this will be the 
fate, not only of counterfeiters, but of all who live in sin. Con- 
tinuing my course north, I held two meetings in Rome. One was 
a weeping time. A young woman came forward, trembling, kneel- 
ed for prayer, and promised to seek the Lord. 

In Taburg I attended a meeting, but enjoying no liberty, fell 
again into trials, and, immediately after meeting, retired to a river 
side at the foot of a hill — made a covenant with God — and " set 
up a stone" for a witness. It pleased the Lord to lift upon me the 
light of his countenance, and I went on my way rejoicing. I 
preached in Trenton ; and on Sabbath, May 20, met an appoint- 
ment at the meeting house in Russia, and spoke from 1 Tim. 2:4 : 
" Who will have all men to be saved," &c. I endeavored to an- 
swer the principal arguments usually brought against the doctrine 
of free salvation, and to enforce the obligation of repentance and 
faith. The Lord accompanied the word by his Spirit. Blessed 
be his name. After I left the meeting, a collection of five dollars 
was brought to me. Being requested, I visited a young woman 
who was very sick, and much concerned for her soul. She said to me, 



DAVID MARKS. 167 

" My great desire is to be prepared to meet God. If this might be, I 
should not wish to live another day." Thus it is with almost all that 
live in sin when they come to the gate of death ; still they will not re- 
pent while they are in health, and while they may. Sabbath P. M., 
I spoke to a crowded assembly in Middleville. I returned to Rus- 
sia, and preached again at the meeting house with unusual freedom. 
One evening, after I had preached, about twenty converts came to 
my lodging, and sung and prayed till midnight. A young man 
present, said, that he had trusted in the doctrine of decrees, but 
the Sabbath before, his refuge was swept away, and since that time 
he had been much concerned for his soul. After midnight he be- 
gan to cry for mercy. I was called up to pray for him, and be- 
fore morning he professed to find peace. 

Saturday, May 26, I attended the monthly meeting of the Free 
Communion Baptist church in Russia. One hundred professors 
spoke of the goodness of God. Elder Corps, a preacher of their 
connexion, though ninety-two years of age, was present, and ex- 
horted his brethren to faithfulness. About a year before this time, 
a great revival commenced under the labors of Susan Humes, and 
continued, as I understood, till about three hundred professed to 
pass from death unto life. Most of the converts joined the Free 
Communion Baptists. The people were much attached to sister 
Humes, and viewed her as a chosen vessel. On the Sabbath I 
met with them again. During the following week I visited sever- 
al towns at the south, and enjoyed happy seasons in preaching the 
Lord Jesus. 

In June, I returned to the western part of New York, visited 
about twenty towns, and attended about thirty meetings with usual 
freedom. July 2, I met two assemblies in Benton and Milo, and 
baptized one in each town. Some revival had lately been enjoy- 
ed in both these places. On the 8th I preached in Canandaigua 
and baptized two, who were added to the church. I spent the re- 
mainder of July, preaching in Sodus, Lyons, Junius, in several 
towns east of Canandaigua, and in several churches within the 
limits of the Owego quarterly meeting. In these meetings sever- 
al were awakened. ' O, may their awakening terminate in conver- 
sion.' 

In August, I attended a session of the Benton quarterly meet- 
ing in Catlin, and also met assemblies in different towns till I came 
to Canandaigua. Here I preached a few times, then visited sever- 
al churches of the Bethany quarterly meeting, and found them 
generally prospering. 

Friday, Aug. 24, 1827, I attended the seventh session of the 
Holland Purchase yearly meeting, held at Bethany. Several im- 
portant subjects were considered with much union. Among these 



168 MEMOIRS 0$ 

was Free Masonry. It appeared that great dissatisfaction had 
arisen on this subject, and was rapidly increasing ; and the testimo- 
ny of Masons, who were daily seceding, publicly declared the oaths, 
ceremonies, and principles of the order, to be such as must strike 
the feelings of every Christian with dread and horror. Their tes- 
timony was confirmed by a thousand circumstances connected with 
the abduction of William Morgan, which had come and were daily 
coming before the public. These things caused many of the breth- 
ren great pain, especially when they reflected that several in the 
denomination who were much esteemed, were bound by oath to the 
institution. Those preachers and brethren present, that belonged 
to that society, retired by themselves to ascertain how far they could 
concede to those who were tried on account of their connection with 
Masonry. They reported that they would have no connection with 
the institution, and would not attend their meetings, except in cas- 
es when " they were summoned;" that in this case they could not 
agree not to attend- — their obligation was of such a nature, that in 
this thing, they were hound in conscience to have their liberty. It 
was thought the brethren generally, who were Masons, would con- 
cede to this position, and it appeared to be satisfactory to the year- 
ly meeting. On Saturday at an early hour worship commenced in 
a grove. The assembly was large, attentive, and solemn. On the 
Sabbath, three sermons and several exhortations were given. The 
blessing of the Lord rested upon us. In the ministers' conference 
on Monday, we understood that the brethren appointed to visit the 
church in Upper Canada, gathered another church in that province. 
My appointment to visit Canada was renewed, and brother F. W. 
Straight, who had lately received a letter of commendation from 
the church in Ontario, was appointed to accompany me. 

On Tuesday evening, I attended an interesting meeting in Cas- 
tile, and on coming out of the house I observed the northern lights 
to be more luminous than I had ever before seen them. They 
rose in bright columns nearly over our heads with majestic gran- 
deur. I remembered reading that the northern lights were never 
seen till the year 1716. I felt very solemn, and reflected on the 
prophecy named in Acts 2:19, 20: "And I will shew won- 
ders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, 
and fire, and vapor of smoke ; — before that great and notable 
day -of the Lord come" About the time we arrived at our 
lodgings, a bright column arose in the east, and extended over our 
heads nearly to the western horizon. The edges were smooth as 
a ribbon, the color was like fire, and its form was like the rainbow. 
There were no clouds, and the light of this column, with those in 
the north, illuminated the earth nearly or quite as much as the 
light of the moon in a clear night. I thought much of the last 



DAVID MARKS. 169 

day, and queried, " if my Lord should now come, am I prepared 
to meet him ?" I felt great composure, and thought if Jesus should 
then descend, and the trumpet be blown, my heart would say, 
" Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus? Shortly after this, I visited 
a family that did not believe in a day "of Judgment to come;" 
but on this occasion, I was informed, they awoke, and seeing the 
light, thought the Judgment day had come; and some of them walk- 
ed their chamber and wept bitterly, wringing their hands for an- 
guish. Yet when the light began to lessen, their tears dried up, 
and probably they said in their hearts, " My Lord delayeth Ms 
coming? But to them, alas ! 

" That awful day will come, 
The appointed hour makes haste." 

Leaving Castile with brother Straight we held meetings in sev- 
eral towns west and north of Canandaigua lake and enjoyed profit- 
able seasons. 



CHAPTER XVI. 

My First Journey to London District in Upper Canada. 

September 26, 1827, we commenced our journey from Canan- 
daigua to Upper Canada, preaching by the way till we arrived at 
Royalton. A little company of saints had been gathered in this 
place by Elder Crapsey, and organized into a church. We attend- 
ed their monthly meeting, and on the Sabbath, October 7, preach- 
ed with them ; the next day we crossed the Niagara river at Lew- 
iston, and proceeded to Lunday's Lane. It was very rainy, night 
came on, and with difficulty we could keep the road ; so we called 
on strangers at a private house, and were kindly received. Soon 
they recognized my countenance, having heard me preach in this 
vicinity five years previous. Continuing our journey, we passed 
through Hamilton and Ancaster, beautiful villages, situated near 
the head of lake Ontario, and through Brandford to Oxford. At 
Oxford, our carriage failed through the dishonesty of a smith that 
repaired it at Hamilton, and besides suffering a loss of six or sev- 
en dollars, our lives were greatly endangered. In about two hours, 
we succeeded in getting repairs made that would answer for the 
present ; and after proceeding a few miles, entered a seven mile 
wood. The road was rough and muddy ; we got through about 
dark, and calling at a house, were told that it was two miles to an 
inn, and a very good road except a quarter of a mile through a 
15 



170 MEMOIRS OF 

wood. We went on, passed over broken log bridges, and through 
deep mud. It soon became so dark that we could not discern our 
hand before us. When confident that we had gone a mile, and 
nothing yet appearing, but a thick forest, we feared that we had 
missed our way, and might have to take our lodging in the retreat 
of the wild beasts. If disposed to return, the way seemed impass* 
able ; so, proceeding about half a mile further, we saw the light of 
a dwelling which we found to be an inn, and were glad. They free- 
ly gave us entertainment. Saturday, Oct. 13, we passed through 
Westminster, crossed the river Thames to London, and proceeded 
ten miles in a rough, miry road to the north part of the town. 
Here was the residence of brother Thomas Huckins. On our ar- 
rival he and nearly all the neighborhood were assembled in month* 
ly meeting. A little boy piloted me through the wood to the meet- 
ing about the time the people were beginning to disperse. They 
were expecting us, and as soon as they saw me, they returned, and 
I heard a shout of joy, and the voice of thanksgiving. This touch- 
ed my heart — I thought, i how many are weary of hearing the 
word ; but with what gladness do these brethren receive a servant 
of the Lord !' When I entered, the house was full of people, 
nearly all of whom shook hands with me, and several wept. Af- 
ter praying with them, I returned with brother Huckins. He was 
the only preacher of the Free-will Baptist denomination then re- 
siding in Upper Canada. A revival had commenced among them ; 
three had been converted, and three or four were seeking the Lord. 
In the evening many came to our lodging, and though we were 
much fatigued, they would not be satisfied nor separate, till they 
had heard a short discourse. 

Sabbath, Oct. 14, I preached with them, and enjoyed a good de- 
gree of the Spirit. Some were awakened to seek the Savior, and a few 
came forward for prayer. On Tuesday following, I held a meeting at 
a dwelling house in another neighborhood. The man of the house 
and his wife were members of the Methodist church : they told 
us, that from a late examination of the Scriptures, they were con- 
vinced that their infant baptism was not authorized by God, and 
that now they believed it their duty to be baptized. On the same 
day I returned to brother Huckins', spoke to a considerable assem- 
bly, and seven covenanted to flee from the wrath to come. Wednes- 
day evening, brother Straight preached, and the day after, I held 
another meeting. On Friday, I was called to visit a family just 
bereaved of an only son, three years of age. He was suddenly 
killed by a pole which rolled from a log fence. The parents and 
others wept exceedingly, and while I addressed them, they seem- 
ed scarcely able to restrain their cries. The father said, he consid- 
ered it a loud call to him to be also ready, and that he was resolv- 



DAVID MARKS. 171 

ed to obey it. I attended the funeral : it was truly a time of weep- 
ing and mourning. When the attendants began to put the child 
into the coffin, the mother for a long time could not be persuaded 
to commit her son to the " narrow house." She cried, " O ! my 
son, you were pleasant." This scene made every spectator feel 
and sympathize. 

On Saturday and Sabbath, six related their experience, were 
baptized, and added to the church. All the exercises were bless- 
ed by the presence of the Lord. Sabbath evening, many spoke of 
the dealings of God with them, and several of the anxious said 
they were resolved to seek the Lord till death, whether they 
found peace or not. 

Monday, Oct. 22, I left brother Straight in London, and preach- 
ed in Westminster: two came forward for prayer. The next day, 
I held a meeting four miles south of the Thames, and in the even- 
ing preached in Southwold. The latter meeting was very solemn. 
One cried for mercy, and another promised to kneel and pray for 
a season. On Wednesday I met an assembly near Dunwich, the 
town where the other church was situated that we had come to vis- 
it. Several of the brethren were at the meeting, and received me 
very affectionately. After speaking more than an hour, on less 
than half the propositions of my text, and finding that my strength 
failed, I appointed a meeting for the next day to finish my sermon. 
The Lord gave me great liberty, and many wept. On Friday I 
preached on Back street, from Ezekiel 33:11 : "Turn ye, turn ye, 
from your evil ways ; for why will ye die ?" I think that I never 
enjoyed greater liberty than on this occasion. My mouth was fill- 
ed with arguments, showing the sinner his evil ways, and urging 
unanswerable reasons why he should turn and live. The solemn 
weight of eternal things seemed to rest on the assembly, and sev- 
eral were almost, if not altogether, persuaded to be Christians. 
Next morning several came to the house where I spent the night, 
and we enjoyed a melting happy season in prayer. Four entered 
into an engagement to seek the Lord. In the evening, the Free- 
will Baptist church assembled for covenant meeting. It consisted 
of twenty members, and though they had been destitute of preach- 
ing nearly a year, they were well united. Several of the Calvin- 
istic Baptists and their minister were present, and spoke in the 
Spirit. Such unity prevailed in the meeting, that though many of 
different denominations took an active 'part, a stranger could dis- 
cover no difference in their sentiments. 

Sabbath, Oct. 28, I spoke two hours and twenty minutes in Dun- 
wich with unusual freedom, and in the evening preached again to 
a crowded and solemn audience. Several manifested a desire to 
become reconciled to God. The next day I held two meetings : 



172 MEMOIRS OF 

the latter was in the east part of Southwold, and a most solemn 
and powerful time. Nearly the whole assembly came forward for 
prayer. On the day following, I faced a tedious storm ten or twelve 
miles to an appointment in Westminster. Only one person attend- 
ed ; I prayed with him, then went to the river Thames and attend- 
ed a meeting, but had a dark, trying time. Still I believed that 
trials would work for my good. 

On Wednesday, I returned to London and preached in the even- 
ing. Nearly the whole assembly confessed Christ, one of whom 
found comfort during my, absence. The next day I attended a 
meeting with brother S. at the house of Mr. Shoff. He spoke as 
a penitent and several others said they were resolved to attend im- 
mediately to the duty they owed their Maker. Friday, I preached 
to a few in the east part of the town, all of whom arose for prayer. 
I held a meeting the day following in the vicinity of the revival, 
and one, on relating her experience, was received for baptism. 

Sunday, Nov. 4, 1827. This day concludes twenty-two years 
of my life. I have endeavored to return humble thanks to my 
Heavenly Father for past mercies and firmly to resolve that my 
dedication to Him shall be entire, that I will strive for victory 
over all sin. All the particulars of this resolution I have written 
this day ; and promised before the Lord, to read them daily for at 
least one month. At ten o'clock I preached at the house of broth- 
er Huckins in London, and baptized four converts. In the after- 
noon we came to the table of the Lord, and sat together in a heav- 
enly place in Christ. The day following, we held another meet- 
ing, and nearly all spoke of the goodness of the Lord. On Tues- 
day, I preached two or three miles east of the revival, to about for- 
ty, who covenanted to seek and serve God ; but some, I feared, did 
not realize their obligation, others appeared to be truly pen- 
itent. Wednesday, Nov. 7, I preached a farewell discourse 
from 2 Cor. 13:11: " Finally, brethren, farewell. Be perfect, be of 
good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace ; and the God of love 
and peace shall be with you?' After the exercises closed, three 
professed to have found Christ, and two of them requested to be 
baptized before I went away. As I had made appointments at 
Dunwich, not expecting to return to London, I had not now time 
to baptize ; so I concluded to meet my engagements, and then re- 
turn. 

Proceeding to Dunwich, I preached by the way in Westminster 
and Southwold. On the Sabbath, our assembly in Dunwich was 
said to be larger than had ever before been in this township. It 
pleased the Savior to favor me with unusual liberty, and I believe 
the Holy Spirit searched the congregation. In the afternoon, Je- 
sus made himself known to us " in breaking of bread." After this 



DAVID MARKS. 173 

I held three meetings, and thought the seasons were profitable. I 
preached in the east part of Southwold again, and rejoiced to find 
that the solemn concern manifested in my second meeting had not 
abated. 

Friday I returned to London, held a meeting in the evening, 
and one the next day. Six related their experience, and were re- 
ceived for baptism. In the evening, for the first time, I heard 
brother Straight preach a sermon with much satisfaction. Sabbath, 
Nov. 18, the assembly was large for this town, and after sermon, 
the six candidates were baptized, rejoicing in the Lord. One of 
them, a man in his seventieth year, had been confined by sickness 
for a year past, and was brought to the meeting on a sled. He 
went into the water as though he enjoyed the strength of youth, 
and came out happy. This was a remarkable hour. Heaven smil- 
ed, and glory seemed to shine on the candidates, on the congrega- 
tion, on the water, and, indeed, on all things around. As the peo- 
ple returned from the water, the saints sung with such melody, that 
it seemed almost as though the New Jerusalem had come down out 
of heaven. In the evening brother Huckins preached, saints re- 
joiced much, and sinners wept bitterly. How striking the contrast ! 
The more of the Spirit of the Lord there is present, the more 
saints will rejoice, and the more sinners will mourn. In this meet- 
ing, five solemnly promised to seek the Lord till they should find 
remission of sins. I remained a week longer in London, and held 
meetings nearly every day w r hich were attended with much inter- 
est, particularly on the Sabbath. The Spirit of the Lord was man- 
ifested in a powerful manner, and the w r ord seemed to cut to the 
heart of every sinner present. I baptized the wife of the man 
aged seventy, that was baptized the Sabbath previous. She was 
sixty-eight years of age, and within four or five days had experi- 
enced a change of heart. 

Monday, Nov. 26, I preached again and bid the people farewell. 
It was a very solemn season. One backslider humbly entreated 
the forgiveness of his brethren whom he had grieved. Next morn- 
ing, a little after the dawn of day, the brethren began to assemble 
at the house where I spent the night, notwithstanding I had bid 
them farewell, and continued to come till nine o'clock, when near- 
ly the whole church and several others were present. Some wept 
all the morning. As I was about to say to them, in the language 
of the apostle, " What mean ye to weep and to break my heart ?" 
brother Huckins said, " Brother David, you are now going away — 
here are souls near the kingdom of God, that probably will soon 
be converted and wish to be baptized. Who shall baptize them ?" 
When I considered their state, how they were without a shepherd, 
I could but weep with them, and an earnest cry arose in my heart 
15* 



174 MEMOIRS OF 

that the Lord would send more faithful laborers into the harvest. 
After uniting in prayer, they sung a hymn suited to the occasion, 
and our parting was very affecting and solemn. When I was out 
of hearing, I gave vent to my feelings in an adjacent wood, and 
wept aloud. Here I prayed for the dear brethren in Canada, 
that God would enlarge their borders, till the " spreading vine of 
low stature" should extend over the province. I had spent more 
than six weeks in these parts, baptized seventeen in London, and 
the church had increased to forty-four. The church in London is 
situated thirty miles north of lake Erie, and about one hundred 
and fifty miles west of Niagara river. Though they had no ad- 
ministrator, they lived in great union, walking in the order and dis- 
cipline of the gospel. Several of their women were much devot- 
ed to the Lord. 

Brother Straight and some others joining me, accompanied me 
on my way to the river Thames, where I parted with brother S., 
he having concluded to spend the winter in Canada. I proceeded 
to Oxford, and after considerable entreaty, I consented to preach, 
and went to the house of Elder James Harris, a Free Communion 
Baptist, where I met a kind reception. In the evening I held a 
meeting at his house, and to the praise of God we had a precious 
season. Several were awakened, and came forward for prayer. 
Some of these never rested till they obtained a hope in God. I 
had designed leaving in the morning, but being earnestly persuad- 
ed, I staid the day and held two meetings. I felt thankful for 
these refreshing interviews. Sabbath I preached three sermons in 
Blenheim. Continuing my journey, I passed through Ancaster, 
and on Tuesday evening preached at Salt Fleet. The Spirit of 
the Lord searched the assembly, sinners wept, and saints shouted 
for joy. After meeting, several came to my lodging, and with 
tears entreated me to labor with them a few days. But thinking 
duty called me, I proceeded on my way, and on Dec. 6, left the 
province. I had spent more than two months in Canada, and trav- 
elled five hundred miles. The people generally were kind and 
liberal. Though among strangers, and often lodging at public 
houses, my expenses, besides some repairs, had not amounted to 
fifty cents. 

Continuing my journey eastward, I held a few meetings in dif- 
ferent towns, and found the work of revival had commenced in 
some of the churches of the Bethany quarterly meeting, particu- 
larly in Byron. I attended a session of the Ontario quarterly 
meeting in Sodus, on the 15th and 16th of the month, which was a 
melting season. Sodus has often been blessed with such seasons; 
and would to God that her Christians, and all others that have 
tasted that the Lord is good and gracious, would remember hi* 



BAYID MARKS. 175 

kindness, and follow him with all the heart. On rny return to 
Canandaigua, I was affectionately received, and held two meetings. 
Here I heard heavy tidings — the death of Elder Abel Thornton. 
He died on the 12th of May, 1827, worn out in the morning of 
life by his unwearied labors for Zion. 



CHAPTER XVII. 

Particulars of viy Travels and Labors from Dec. 1827, to May. 

1828. 

Having been appointed by the Ontario quarterly meeting, I vis- 
ited a revival in the north part of Scriba, a town situated on the 
south shore of lake Ontario, about eighty miles from Canandaigua. 
A small church had been gathered in the south part of the town, 
about seven years previous. At this time they had but nine mem- 
bers. I understood the revival commenced three months before, 
under the labors of an unordained preacher, and that at that time 
there was but one praying man in the neighborhood. Twelve or 
fifteen had now obtained a hope, several wanderers had returned to 
their first love, and Christians in adjacent neighborhoods were re- 
vived. Sabbath breakers and the openly immoral had reformed, 
and now attended at the house of God. 

On January 1, 1828, the salutation of friend to friend, u I wish 
you a happy new year," was quite frequent. But to some in Scri- 
ba this was emphatically a new year. Old things had passed away, 
and all things had become new ; and they could say this was the 
only happy New Year's day they had ever seen. At ten o'clock, 
A. M. several of the brethren and converts, with myself, met with 
the Methodists in an adjacent town, and were affectionately wel- 
comed. I preached a discourse, and many spoke of the joy they 
had found in the Savior, and covenanted to dedicate themselves to 
Him with new engagedness. In the evening we had a profitable 
meeting in Scriba. Several solemnly covenanted to spend the year 
in the service of the Lord. I was told by several persons, that 
while they were returning from worship, they heard the voice of 
singing in the air. The sky was clear, and they said the singing 
appeared to be very high, and the most melodious of any music 
they had ever heard, and continued directly over their heads while 
they travelled about a quarter of a mile. A non-professor that 



176 MEMOIRS OF 

heard it, was alarmed, believing it was the voice of angels, and be- 
gan to repent of his sins. From this time the work revived anew. 
Many forsook their sins and called on the name of the Lord. He 
heard the cries of the penitent, and sent salvation to the broken- 
hearted. Then did Zion rejoice with "joy and gladness, and sor- 
row and sighing" fled away. 

I continued laboring in Scriba for one month, and rejoiced to see 
the work of the Lord spread so gloriously. Sabbath, Jan. 6, 1828, 
after preaching, I baptized seven, and the next day gave the right 
hand of fellowship to a small band of brethren, as a branch of the 
church in the south part of the town. They were organized the 
same as a church, and did their own business in the same manner : 
shortly afterwards they became distinct, and were called the second 
Free-will Baptist church in Scriba. Before the month closed, I 
baptized eleven more. These, with two or three others, were ad- 
ded to the church, and all appeared well united and happy. 

Sabbath, Jan. 20, I preached three lengthy sermons, and retired 
much exhausted. For three weeks I had spoken upon an average 
between three and four hours in a day. A little past midnight, I 
was taken ill, and raised fresh blood very fast, till my strength fail- 
ed. A death-like feeling seized me, and I expected to depart this 
life immediately. I reviewed the doctrine I had preached, and the 
manner in which I had spent my time — I found nothing to regret, 
except that I had not been more humble, spiritual, and faithful in 
my calling. I thought of my friends — I was willing to leave them, 
believing that we should meet in a better world. I examined my 
evidences of acceptance with God — through grace they w T ere 
bright as the sun, and this was one of the happiest hours I had ev- 
er seen. There seemed but one step between me and heaven. 
And now, with feelings that I had never before conceived, I con- 
templated meeting the prophets, the apostles, the army of the re- 
deemed, and my blessed Savior in glory. But when, in my feel- 
ings I had bid my friends and the world farewell — and my soul 
was ravished by the anticipation of an immediate admission into the 
kingdom of heaven, my thoughts turned to a world of sinners, ex- 
posed to hell. They, and they only, seemed to invite my stay in 
the world. Something whispered, " Wilt thou still go and warn 
them ?" Pity moved my soul — I wept for them and said, " Yes, 
Lord, Iivill go and ivarn them as long as it shall be thy will, if it 
be even forty years" At this moment it seemed as though the at- 
tendant angel was commanded to recall the warrant of death. Im- 
mediately I began to amend, and in a few days my strength was 
restored. 

About the 30th of Jan. I preached my farewell discourse in Scri- 
ba, and to many it was a solemn time. Fifteen or twenty had been 



DAVID MARKS. 177 

hopefully converted during the month, and a considerable number 
were still under conviction. After visiting and preaching in dif- 
ferent towns, I returned to Canandaigua, spent a few days, and en- 
joyed some good meetings. 

Wednesday, Feb. 20, I left Canandaigua to visit the Owego and 
Gibson quarterly meetings, and on the way to Middlesex, my mind 
was impressed with the necessity of salvation from all sin. The 
commandment of the Lord Jesus, Matt. 5:48, " Be ye therefore per- 
fect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect" came with 
power into my soul. And remembering the declaration of the 
apostle, 1 John 5:3, " His commandments are not grievous" my 
unbelief fled away, and faith said, ' God's ways are equal, and his 
requirements just.' " Whosoever therefore shall break one of these 
least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the 
least in the kingdom of heaven." Matt. 5:19. Then the following 
queries arose, * if he shall be least, who practices and teaches con- 
trary to the least of Christ's commandments, what will be the fate 
of him who not only violates, but teaches contrary to the greatest 
commandment ? And what commandment is greater than this, to 
be perfect, even as our Father in heaven is perfect ? How then 
dare I, a vessel of the Lord's sanctuary, that ought to be holy in 
body and in spirit, live in sin ?— and, like satan, bring Scripture to 
justify my iniquity, or screen my guilty conscience? When I 
preach to sinners that they should " repent," do they not quote the 
words of Christ to justify themselves, " Without me ye can do noth- 
ing ?" And were I to preach to Christians that they should be 
" perfect," would they not say, " There is not a just man upon 
earth, that doeth good, and sinneth not ?" * After reflecting on the 
above queries, the conviction settled into my soul, as if from heav- 
en, that these Scriptures are as unjustly misapplied, as that quoted 
by the tempter, Matt. 4:6, " Cast thyself down : for it is written, He 
shall give his angels charge concerning thee," &c. Now it is cer- 
tain that satan did act himself in reciting this text : he seemed to 
have holy Scripture directly to the point that he wished to gain. 
So, alas ! it is a fact, and my blood chills at the reflection, that sin- 
ners, and even saints, often quote Scripture as satan did, and make 
an application equally erroneous, to justify their living in sin. 
' And thou, my soul, be humbled exceedingly before God ; for 
alas ! thou also, since Heaven forgave thee all, hast recited and ap- 
plied Scripture to justify thyself; as though those who are redeem- 
ed from sin could not help living in sin ! Hast thou found that 
the death of Christ was not sufficient to enable his children to be- 
come like Nathaniel, " an Israelite indeed, in xohom is no guile ?" 
O be thou abased exceedingly, for thou hast applied the word of 
God like unto satan, to content thyself without entire victory over 



178 MEMOIRS OF 

sin. How vain was thy thought, that death, the offspring of sin, 
should in any way save thee, or fit thee for heaven. If the blood 
of Jesus have not the cleansing power to perfect thee for glory, 
how shall death fit thee for the better world ?' From these reflec- 
tions I sunk into nothing before God, and turning aside into a wood, 
I fell on my face, and called on the Lord, — and, blessed be his 
name, I felt resolved in his strength to strive to live without sin, 
and " follow the Lamb whithersoever he goeth." 

A large number asssembled at my appointment in Middlesex. I 
spoke from Col. 2:6, " As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus 
the Lord, so walk ye in Him? I endeavored to urge the necessity 
of Christian perfection, and, to the praise of God, we had a good 
time. On Saturday, an appointment on a council called me to 
Benton. In the evening, the council adjourned while I gave a dis- 
course, and then sat till three in the morning. Sabbath I spoke to 
an attentive assembly in Benton, from Acts 9:29, " And he spake 
boldly in the name of the Lord Jesus, and disputed against the 
Grecians ; but they went about to slay him." In the illustration 
of the text, I noticed, first, the great controversy between the wick- 
ed and righteous, error and truth, darkness and light, the enemy of 
all righteousness and " the Judge of all the earth ;" secondly, the 
character of the disputants ; thirdly, the position and arguments of 
those engaged in the controversy — the resort of the wicked to per- 
secution in support of their cause, when repulsed by sound argu- 
ment — and the final victory of the Son of God. 

Proceeding on my way, I crossed Seneca lake, and held a meet- 
ing in Dryden. Thursday, I stopped at a Methodist prayer meet- 
ing, and the brethren would have me preach. Soon, some wept 
aloud, others shouted, and two lost their strength. Eight came for- 
ward for prayer, and four of them covenanted to kneel and pray 
thrice a day, like the good prophet Daniel, for three weeks. I 
passed through Owego to Apalachian creek, and Sabbath, March 
2d, held two or three meetings. Several appeared to be serious, 
and seven or eight came forward for prayer. During the week fol- 
lowing, I attended six meetings in Gibson, Pa. and in towns in the 
vicinity. On Monday evening, March 10, I had an appointment 
in Owego, N. Y. Night came on, and losing my road, I wander- 
ed some time in the dark ; but at length I arrived at the meeting, 
and enjoyed much freedom, in speaking. My next meeting was on 
Owego creek ; only ten persons attended, but we found that the 
presence of the Lord is not confined to a multitude. Wednesday, 
I went to Candor, in which town I had an appointment in the even- 
ing ; but it being very unpleasant, and the travelling bad, some 
advised me not to go to the appointment, thinking that none would 
attend. So I consented ; but soon feeling uneasy, I went two 



DAVID MARKS. 179 

miles to the meeting, and found a considerable assembly, and we 
enjoyed a precious season. 

Thursday, March 13, I met a crowded assembly in the place, 
where, two weeks before, eight came forward for prayer. One of 
the number was now happy. The Lord enabled me to speak with 
power. Near the close, I told the assembly the Lord had express- 
ly commanded them to choose without delay whom they would 
serve — vea, that they should choose to serve the Lord. (See 
Deut 30:19 ; Josh. 24:15 ; Acts 3:19 ; 17:30 ; Heb. 3:7, 8 ; Matt. 
4:17 ; 6:33.) And further, as Moses caused a division among the 
people, Ex. 32:26, that it might be known who was on the Lord's 
side, so I requested the people to make their choice, " and show 
their deeds," reminding them that " nothing is secret that shall not 
be made manifest." Luke 8:17. I further said to them, if they 
secretly chose to put off repentance, it would be in reality to choose 
9atan for their master, and would thus be recorded in the book of 
remembrance ; and that if they chose to serve the Lord secretly, 
that secrecy is forbidden, Matt. 5:15, 16, and would be marked as 
disobedience by the displeasure of the Almighty. About the whole 
assembly arose to manifest that they would seek and serve God. 
I reminded them that their covenant was registered in heaven, and 
that " God shall bring every work into judgment ;" we then joined 
in prayer. " But some man will say," ' they may break their cov- 
enant — and in that case it will be worse than it would have been 
if they had not covenanted.' The first is true ; but the latter may 
be doubted, for had they not chosen the Lord, they must have 
chosen sin. And which is the good choice ? To refuse to do right, 
for fear that we shall do wrong, is to give up ourselves altogether 
to work iniquity. Our obligation to God is infinite, therefore our 
promise cannot increase our duty. The use of a vow is, to make 
ourselves sensible of our obligation. Hence, first, it is good to vow 
unto the Lord ; and, secondly, to pay that which we have vowed. 

On Friday I spoke in Dry den to a few, principally non-profes- 
aors. The Spirit of the Lord was present, but I feared the great- 
er part knew not "the time of their visitation." Alas ! what mul- 
titudes are heedless of their precious day till it closes in eternal 
night ! O my God, have mercy on them before their sun shall set 
Sail ath, March 16,1 went to an appointment of Elder A. Daniels, 
in Virgil, and, being invited, preached to the people. As I was 
about leaving the place, a brother gave me a dollar. I was told 
that a little before, a minister, who was a poor man, after preach- 
ing a sermon, seated himself shivering with the cold, and this broth- 
er took off a new great coat and put it around him. When the 
preacher returned it, he told him he had given it to him, and he 
himself would wear his old one another year. " The liberal devi- 



180 MEMOIRS OF 

seth liberal things ; and by liberal things shall he stand." An un» 
converted young man also gave me half a dollar. 

In the seven days following, I attended two meetings in Spafford, 
two in Fabius, and one in Camillus, four in Conquest, and one in 
Cato. Some of these were very solemn seasons. In the latter, 
nearly all the assembly manifested by standing up, that they would 
choose the Lord for their God. I feared, however, that some had not 
become sufficiently humbled to persevere in their duty : others were 
deeply affected, and I hoped they would bring forth fruit unto eter- 
nal life. After holding another meeting, I went to Junius. 

I was never more gladly received than at this time. My friends 
had heard and believed that I was dead ; and now when they be- 
held my face, they seemed to view me as one that had arisen from 
the grave. On Thursday I had a very distressing cough, yet I 
rode ten miles to Waterloo, and spoke to a few. Here I met a 
younger brother. He was greatly surprised on seeing me, and 
wept profusely. After the meeting, he took me aside and told me 
he was resolved to seek the Lord, and the next day covenanted 
with me to perform his resolution. After holding a meeting in the 
west part of Junius, I went to Canandaigua. My friends in this 
place had also heard that I was dead, and had withdrawn my ap- 
pointments. I met with brother Straight, who was recently from 
Upper Canada. He informed me that a large number in South- 
wold and Dunwich, that came forward for prayer during my stay 
in those places, had been converted, and were now waiting an op- 
portunity for baptism ; and that he had come with a request for 
me to visit them immediately. These tidings were " as cold water 
to a thirsty soul ;" but having engagements for several weeks, I 
could not go directly — so I sent appointments into the province for 
the ensuing May. Brother Straight was soon after set apart to the 
work of the ministry, and returned to Canada. 

Sabbath, April 13, I preached twice in Byron. In the first 
meeting, several manifested their resolution to choose the Lord for 
their portion. God had lately visited his people in Byron : Chris- 
tians were engaged, and several had been converted. The breth- 
ren entreated me to remain, but duty would not permit. Next 
day I went to Batavia, but indisposition prevented me from hold- 
ing a meeting. A severe cough, that had sometime affected me, 
still continued violent, and had much reduced my strength. Thus 
infirmity attends me in this world ; but, glory to God, for the grace 
that assures my soul of immortality. Tuesday and Wednesday, I 
attended meetings in Alexander, Attica, and on the town line of 
Alexander and Bethany. In the latter/ place was a glorious revi- 
val, and nearly the whole assembly manifested a resolution to serve 
the Lord. I preached at Canandaigua on the Sabbath, and attend- 



DAVID MARKS. 181 

ed a conference meeting. The state of religion was rather low, yet 
several wept for Zion. 

In the latter part of April, after holding meetings in several 
towns, I made another visit to Scriba. The converts remained 
steadfast and generally well engaged. Several that covenanted to 
seek the Lord when I left the place, had been brought into liberty. 
I was considerably affected by the sudden death of a young man, 
that in my former visit often attended my meetings, and was some- 
times seriously exercised. Yet he delayed seeking the Lord. I 
was informed that the day for his marriage had been appointed ; 
but three or four days before the time, while in company w T ith the 
friend of his choice, and apparently in health, he suddenly put his 
hand to his head, and cried out bitterly. Immediately he became 
deranged, and died in a little time. The wedding festivities were 
changed to the solemnities of a funeral. Thus are the hopes of 
this world blasted, and thus the gay and thoughtless forget God — 
refuse to be wise, and are unprepared for eternity. In a little more 
than a week, I held about ten meetings in Scriba and the adjacent 
towns. Some of them were quite solemn and refreshing. 

On Saturday, May 3, a two-days' meeting commenced in a barn 
at Scriba. I spoke from 1 Thess. 5:19, and enjoyed great free- 
dom. Many exhortations were given in quick succession. Nine 
dissenters from the Calvinistic Baptist church in New Haven, re- 
quested by letter, that they might be constituted a church in fellow- 
ship with our denomination. As I could not, some other preachers 
shortly after attended to their request. The Sabbath was pleas- 
ant. I addressed six or seven hundred an hour and three quar- 
ters, from Ezekiel 36:25, " Then will I sprinkle clean water upon 
you" &c. After this, three related their experience, and were 
baptized. Among these was a widow, whose husband, a captain 
of a vessel on lake Erie, was lost about a year before with his 
crew and passengers, amounting to the number of sixteen persons. 
During the revival the winter previous, she was constant in her 
attendance of my meetings, and at length came forward wdth the 
anxious. Like Lydia, her heart was opened, and she opened her 
house for meetings. It had pleased the Lord to comfort her soul 
with his salvation, and this was a day of gladness. After baptism, 
we collected on a pleasant green, near the bank of the stream, and 
partook of the Lord's Supper. The heavens seemed to " drop 
down new wine," and the songs of the converts rung with such 
holy rapture, that I exclaimed in my heart, 

This place is like elysian fields 
That lie o'er Jordan's flood. 

In the evening, I spoke to a considerable assembly in the south 
part of Scriba. The Lord gave me freedom, and filled my heart 
16 



182 MEMOIRS OP 

with gratitude for the good shown me this day. After this I at- 
tended two meetings in Cato, one on a funeral occasion, and held 
meetings in several towns on the way to Canandaigua. 

Friday, May 10, a session of the Benton quarterly meeting open- 
ed in this place. The brethren seemed to come " like clouds full 
of rain/' and many wept at seeing each other. The meetings of 
worship were interesting. On the Sabbath, four sermons were 
given, and several animating exhortations. It fell to my lot to bap- 
tize one that was received the day previous. During the meeting, 
Elder Josiah Fowler, from Conesus, made as humble and affecting 
a confession as I ever heard. He had been a Free Mason, and had 
taken several of the higher degrees. Once he was humble, and 
God blessed his labors. He spoke of his enjoyment till the time 
he took on him masonic obligations, which was more than six years 
before. Alluding to that occurrence, and his attention afterwards 
to Free Masonry, he exclaimed, " O my brethren, I have been in- 
to Babylon !" His feelings overcame him, and for some time he 
wept aloud. Then he said, " O my God ! forgive me — O my 
brethren, will you forgive me ? — O sinners, can you forgive me, for 
laying this stumbling block in your way ?" He said, that for five 
years he never knew of the conversion of one soul through his in- 
strumentality ; and at length the Lord took him in hand, while he 
was in his field, and he thought he should die under the power of 
God. He was humbled under the mighty hand of the Lord, saw 
his wandering, and promised to renounce his allegiance to that in- 
stitution. He said he believed the Lord had forgiven him all, and 
that now he enjoyed peace like a river. Those who were acquaint- 
ed with Elder Fowler knew him to be, naturally, a man of a proud 
spirit, and his unexpected confession greatly affected the assem- 
bly. 



DAYID MARKS. 183 

CHAPTER XVIII. 

My Second Journey to London District, Upper Canada. 

Monday, May 12, 1828, I left Canandaigua for Upper Canada, 
and in four days preached in Greece and Parma, thrice in Clark- 
son, and once in Royalton. Sabbath, May 18, 1 attended two meet- 
ings six miles east of the village of Lewiston, and was affectionate- 
ly received by brother T— , who related the following particu- 
lars of his conversion. , He said, that being a royal arch mason, he 
became acquainted with some facts connected with the abduction 
and murder of William Morgan, who was carried by his door, and 
confined in the Magazine at Niagara, till the installation of the 
royal arch chapter in this town. He was called to Canandaigua as 
a witness, and resolved, agreeably to his masonic obligation, to 
swear " he knew nothing of the affair T He said he felt conscien- 
tious, and doubted not that he was doing right, till, unexpectedly, 
the trial was adjourned, and he was dismissed. Then he hasted to 
be alone ; the thought of his narrow escape rushed on his mind 
like a flood. He said that in a moment it appeared to him, had it 
not been for the mercy of God in thus saving him, that his ruin 
would have been effected for time and for eternity. Then he ad- 
ded, " I fell on my knees for the first time, and returned thanks to 
Almighty God, and promised to renounce my allegiance to Free 
Masonry, to the world, and to sin, and seek the salvation of my 
soul." He returned home, confessed his resolutions to his wife, 
and published his renunciation of Masonry. This awakened his 
companion, and they sought the Lord till he spoke peace to their 
souls. Several of their neighbors became concerned, a revival fol- 
lowed, and was still progressing. This man and his wife appeared 
to be humble converts, and much engaged in the service of the 
Lord. 

Monday, I crossed the Niagara, proceeded to St. Catharines, and 
seeing many people in the centre of the village, I felt impressed to 
speak to them of the things of eternity. I shrunk at the cross, and 
passed through the village, — then feeling condemned, I returned 

and met a stranger, that afterwards I understood to be Dr. C , 

a merchant of that place. I asked him if I might preach in the 
street. He replied, " Yes ;" and went immediately himself, and 
sent some others to notify a meeting to commence in ten minutes. 
I placed my wagon in the centre of the village for a pulpit, and at 
the time appointed, kneeled down and prayed. About one hun- 
dred and fifty people gathered around. I addressed them from 



184 MEMOIRS OF 

Amos 4:12, " Prepare to meet thy God" They listened attentive- 
ly, and some appeared affected. I appointed a meeting to attend 
on my return. Several solicited me to stay the night, but my en- 
gagements obliged me to pursue my journey. The next day I 
called at an inn, and preached to a few, from Ex. 3:14, "/ AM 
hath sent me unto you" In the afternoon I gave an exhortation at 
Hamilton to a few people in the street. Two drunken men tried, 
by insults and abuse, to embarrass me — yet the Lord blessed me 
with some freedom. One of these was a negro, and the other was 
an Irishman; the latter laid violent hands on me. Still I thought 
it good to "go out into the highways and hedges, and compel" 
perishing sinners to come to the gospel feast. A little before sun- 
set, I arrived at Ancaster, wishing to warn the wicked of this vil- 
lage ; and having but few minutes to stop, I gave notice for preach- 
ing in seven minutes, on the green opposite the meeting house. 
When the time had expired, two persons were present, and I ask- 
ed them to give me a text. They gave me " Nothing." Soon af- 
ter prayer, seventy or eighty people assembled, and taking my 
text, I proceeded to show, first, that God created the world out of 
nothing ; secondly, that man was placed under a law, in which 
there was nothing unjust ; thirdly, that there is nothing to justify 
the impenitent transgressor ; fourthly, that there will be nothing to 
comfort him in death — nothing to save him in judgment, or to give 
him hope in hell ; fifthly, that the righteous have by nature nothing 
meritorious, nothing of their own of which they can boast, nothing 
to fear in death ; and, that in the judgment day, they will have 
nothing to cause them grief, and in heaven nothing to disturb their 
peace — and finally, that in time, and in eternity, nothing will turn 
to the advantage of the wicked, or to the disadvantage of the right- 
eous. The Lord assisted me, O, blessed be his name. Many were 
solemn and several wept. 

Continuing my journey, and preaching as I stopped by the way, 
I reached an appointment in Southwold, Friday, May 23, and bro. 
Straight and the converts received me very affectionately. Many 
that were mourning for their sins when I left the place, were now 
happy in the Lord, and we had a joyful meeting. I was informed 
that, from the time I left this place, brother Straight labored dili- 
gently with the people, the work soon assumed an encouraging as- 
pect, and the Lord gave him much success. Before he left for 
New York, a first and second letter had been sent to Elder Jen- 
kins of Bethany, requesting him to come and baptize the converts ; 
but no answer having been received, the church in Dunwich sent 
brother Straight to New York, with a request that he might be or- 
dained. But previous to his return, brother Jenkins came to their 
help, baptized forty, principally in Southwold, and organized a 



DAVID MARKS. 185 

church. I was informed, that the first time they attended to bap- 
tism, twenty converts submitted to Christ in this ordinance. A 
spectator held his watch, and observed that the administrator was 
but eleven minutes baptizing the twenty. Some had asserted 
that the apostolic manner of baptizing could not have bejen by im- 
mersion, — for if it had been been, the twelve apostles could not 
have baptized the three thousand on the day of Pentecost. On 
this account some one worked the folio wing sum: If one baptize 
twenty in eleven minutes, how long will it take twelve to baptize 
three thousand ? He found the answer to be two hours, seventeen 
minutes and a half. Thus, after all that has been said against im- 
mersion, on the supposition that the twelve apostles could not bap- 
tize three thousand in a day, it appears that it would have been to 
them a short and pleasant work. 

Saturday and Sabbath I preached in Dunwich, and saw some 
engaged converts that were awakened in my former visit. Tues- 
day, I met an assembly on Back street, and in the forenoon of the 
day following, at the house of deacon B. His wife, having been 
confined twelve years by sickness, had lost the powers of speech 
and sight ; but still retaining the sense of hearing, she had request- 
ed that I should hold this meeting. A number that were awaken- 
ed came forward for prayer. In the afternoon I spoke to an as- 
sembly at the house of Israel Morse, from Rom. 9:21, " Hath not 
the potter power over the clay, of the same lump to make one vessel 
unto honor, and another unto dishonor ? In the evening, Mr. M. 
and his wife said, that under God the discourse had removed from 
their minds some serious objections to the doctrine of free salvation. 
They appeared much concerned, and both prayed for mercy. The 
man said in his distress that he feared his case was hopeless. They 
confessed their sins, and seemed resolved to seek the Lord all the 
days of their life. Next morning I visited and prayed with them ; 
they appeared to be truly penitent. One of their daughters, a 
young convert, who had been opposed by her parents, now rejoic- 
ed greatly, believing they were near the kingdom of God. In a 
few days they obtained a hope, and were baptized. Not many 
months afterwards, this young woman became the wife of brother 
Straight. After holding another meeting, I went to London, and 
was very affectionately welcomed by brother Huckins and family. 
Our interview was sweet. The day following, I met the dear 
saints in London. After sermon, twenty-eight spoke of the loving 
kindness of the Lord, and of the way in which he led their souls, 
and one requested baptism. Having consulted several of the min- 
isters in New York, also the brethren in Dunwich and Southwold, 
and received their advice to examine brother Huckins for ordina- 
tion, I now proposed to the church in London, to call a council for 
16* 



186 MEMOIRS OF 

the purpose. To this they all agreed. Elder Jenkins had propos- 
ed the same to brother Huckins, but from views of his un worthi- 
ness, he positively refused his consent. But now, by the unani- 
mous request of the church, he concluded, after considerable hesi- 
tation, to submit to an examination. 

Sabbath, June 1, 1828, I preached twice in London. In the 
latter discourse, the Lord helped me to speak about two hours, and 
the people were seriously impressed. Many testified of the grace 
of God, and at the close I baptized an aged woman. As she came 
up out of the water, she praised the Lord aloud. A young convert 
then came forward, declared her faith in Christ, and was baptized. 
Two solemnly promised to seek the Lord. Next day I visited sev- 
eral families, and preached at the house of sister Pierce. Since 
my former visit, her husband had gone the way of all the earth, 
He was friendly to Christians, and thought he enjoyed some re- 
ligion ; but it seemed to consist in strict morality. He justified 
himself in the neglect of family prayer, and confessing Christ pub- 
licly, and thought the noise and talk of engaged Christians quite 
unnecessary. His wife, and most of his children, were humble fol- 
lowers of Christ, " spoke often one to another," and, I believe, 
" prayed to God always." He was of opinion that they made 
more sound and show about religion, than was necessary ; and 
they feared that he knew nothing of true " godliness." Still they 
lived affectionately, tenderly regarded each other's feelings, and 
were closely bound together by the family ties. In this situation, 
sister P. told me that he approached the gate of death ; still he 
changed not. He was apparently struck with its icy hand, and 
his friends waited every hour in expectation of his decease. To 
her it was an awful hour ! She loved her companion, yet she be- 
lieved he was trusting in a false hope. But what could she do ? 
Her last hours in his society were passing swiftly, and how could 
she be, what some would call, so uncharitable, as to tell her hus- 
band plainly, that she believed he was deceived, and that he 
" must be born again," or " not see the kingdom of God." Still, 
how could she bear that he should die in this state ? He remained 
at the point of death some days. She wept — she prayed — she 
poured out her soul to God. She obtained strength — told her hus- 
band, that it appeared to her he could not die in his present state ; 
that God had continued him these several days, that he might dis- 
charge some duty he had neglected. Finally, she told him her 
whole soul ; and instead of being grieved, as she had feared, he 
confessed his lost condition, and cried to the Lord for mercy. To 
the great joy of his family, he found pardon and the witness of the 
Spirit, to which he confessed that till now he had ever been a 
stranger. He exclaimed, " O that I could talk, and I would tell 



DAVID MARKS. 187 

you that which you never heard before." He now condemned his 
former faith, and exhorted his wife and children to perseverance in 
family prayer, and in the practice of all the Christian duties he had 
before called useless. In about twenty-four hours after this, he 
bid the world adieu. Sister P. remarked that she never came to a 
greater cross than she did in this trial, and had she shrunk from 
duty, she never could have forgiven herself; but now she felt 
great thankfulness to God, who strengthened her, and granted the 
desire of her soul. 

During the week following, I attended several interesting meet- 
ings in Southwold and Dunwich. At the last, sixteen covenanted 
to seek the Lord. A small number had experienced salvation in 
my absence to London, and brother Straight had baptized three — 
one of whom, like the jailer, went forward in the night. The con- 
verts were much engaged, and I was much affected while reflect- 
ing on the change religion had made in this town. Eight or nine 
months ago, the voice of prayer was scarcely heard for miles : now 
a little army worshipped God " in spirit and in truth." 

The dreary waste and barren land 

Have smil'd with heav'nly light, 
Sinners have seen the Savior's hand, 

And own'd his mandates right. 

Friday, brother Straight accompanied me to London, where we 
held a two-days meeting, commencing on Saturday, the 7th of June. 
At this time five deacons, from the three churches of our denomin- 
ation in the province, brother Straight and myself, sat as a council 
of examination. Brother Huckins gave an interesting relation of 
his experience and call to the ministry, and stated his sentiments 
with clearness. After a close examination, the council agreed that 
he should be set apart to the work unto which God had called him. 
"We returned' our humble thanks to Almighty God for having 
heard the groanings of our brethren in Canada. The other relig- 
ious exercises on the first day were interesting. On the Sabbath, 
it was delightful to see the happy Christians of London coming out 
of the forest from almost every direction, to witness the first ordi- 
nation among our brethren in this province. It fell to my lot to 
preach a sermon on the occasion, from 1 Tim. 4:16, " Take heed, 
unto thyself, and unto the doctrine ; continue in them : for in doing 
this thou shall save both thyself and them that hear thee. 79 After 
this brother Straight and myself proceeded to the ordaining prayer, 
to the laying on of hands, to the giving of the charge, and the right 
hand of fellowship. AYe then commended the candidate " to God, 
and to the word of his grace," believing that God would strengthen 
him, and make him a shepherd of the flock, and a blessing to the 
church. 



188 MEMOIRS OF 

In the afternoon, brother Straight preached a weighty discourse. 
Then an aged brother, formerly from Scotland, a man of ' a good 
understanding,' and much piety, arose and stated that he was a 
member of the Methodist society, with whom he felt the sweetest 
union, that he did not design to forsake them, or any Christians ; 
but that he felt it to be a duty he owed to God, to arise and be bap- 
tized ; and he wished also to exchange the place of his member- 
ship from one Christian church to another. His first conviction 
that he had not been baptized, originated from reading in Dr. 
Parkhurst's Greek and English Lexicon, the definition of haptizo, 
the original word from which baptize was adopted into our version 
of the Scriptures ; and knowing that the learned doctor was a min- 
ister of the church of England, and that he practised sprinkling for 
baptism, he was not a little surprised on reading from his pen the 
following definition of baptizo : " To dip, immerse, plunge." He 
expected to find it, " To dip, pour, sprinkle.'' This awakened his 
attention, and he examined the subject for himself. He said the 
learned had deceived him ; and now he was convinced that the 
commandment to be baptized was still obligatory on him. He was 
received by the church on the recommendation of the Methodist 
brethren that were present, and I had the privilege of baptizing 
him. He had been a class leader and I think a professor about 
forty years. Since his connection with the London church, I be- 
lieve he has been an ornament to Zion and a help to the brethren. 
The exercises closed, and we parted happy. 

About this time I met with some trouble. My horse, that had 
carried me nineteen thousand miles in a little more than five years, 
received an injury from another beast and died. I had appoint- 
ments extending between three and four hundred miles, commenc- 
ing on Monday, and knew not how I should reach them. I told 
Dea. P., to whose care I had committed the horse, that I thought 
he should sustain the loss, as it happened through his want of care. 
He made no objection, and purchased me another horse. About 
six months afterwards, while reflecting on this occurrence, I be- 
came of the opinion that I had erred in supposing that brother P. 
ought to bear this loss, because he did not keep my horse for mon- 
ey, but as a friend to show me a favor ; and I regretted having re- 
ceived the compensation. So, on my next visit to Canada, I re- 
funded to him all that I had received, with as much satisfaction as 
I ever received what was owed me by another. He with several 
brethren, however, gave me fifteen or twenty dollars. 

Monday, June 9, I bade the brethren in London farewell, and 
proceeded on my journey ; but my horse was old and travelled 
very slowly, and my appointments were so arranged that I found it 
difficult to meet them. Tuesday, I arrived at Oxford, next day at 



DAVID MARKS. 189 

Brandford ; and the morning following, started before breakfast in 
the rain. The road was so extremely bad that I was unable to 
travel more than two miles an hour ; and being in an open car- 
riage, there was scarcely a dry thread remaining in my clothes. 

At one o'clock, P. M., I met an appointment at Ancaster, where 
I had preached from the word " Nothing" The meeting house 
was opened, and about one hundred people assembled. I spoke 
to them from the word " Something," — and endeavored to 
show, first, that there is something above all things ; secondly, that 
there is something in man that cannot become extinct ; thirdly, 
that there is naturally something in man that makes him unhappy ; 
fourthly, that there is something in the gospel to reverse man's 
state ; fifthly, that there is something that will disturb the finally 
impenitent in death, judgment, and in eternity, and make them un- 
happy ; sixthly, that true Christians possess something that the 
world never knew ; and, finally, that in the great change, and in 
eternity, they will have something that will yield eternal joy. 
Many appeared serious, and I hoped that good was done. 

At 5 o'clock, I spoke with considerable freedom in th^e street at 
Hamilton. Some appeared to be affected, and the people gave me 
two or three dollars. On Friday I met about one thousand peo- 
ple on the square at St. Catharines, and spoke to them an hour 
and a half. Near the close, many of the assembly were in 
tears, and I felt a fervent desire that the Lord would visit this peo- 
ple. After a part of the assembly had gone away, Dr. C , 

though not a professor, called for a collection, and presented me 
ten dollars. He invited me to his house ; said that my former 
discourse in this place made deep impressions on his mind, and al- 
most persuaded him to be a Christian. Alas ! how many are only 
almost persuaded, and never submit themselves entirely to God ; 
but die in their sins and sink to eternal ruin ! On Saturday I left 
the province, spent the Sabbath in Roy alt on, and enjoyed usual 
freedom. From Royalton, I went to Canandaigua, and preached 
in nearly half the towns through which I passed. 

After this, a line of appointments called me to go immediately to 
the west. I preached from one to three sermons a day, for a week, 
when I arrived at Boston, Erie county. I held a few meetings in 
this vicinity and in Eden, then visited and preached in various 
towns at the east. Many of these seasons were solemn, and I 
could but hope that some good fruit would be seen in eternity. 
About this time I fulfilled all my appointments that had been pre- 
viously given out ; but it had been done with much difficulty, as 
my horse would at no time travel more than three miles an hour. 
I was under the necessity of riding, generally twenty or thirty, and 
sometimes forty miles a day ; and in order to reach my appoint- 



190 MEMOIRS OF 

merits, occasionally rode half the night. As I had not money to 
purchase another horse, all my efforts during this time to procure 
one on any other conditions, were ineffectual. I think that I never 
passed through more fatigue than during the labors of this month. 
But notwithstanding my embarrassments, I was enabled to travel 
between four and five hundred miles, and attend thirty-five meet- 
ings. About the last of the month, I contracted a debt to pur- 
chase a good horse : thus one burden was removed, for which I felt 
to thank the Lord. 

During the first part of July, I preached daily among the church- 
es in the Ontario and Benton quarterly meetings, and the power 
of God was often in our midst. In the latter part of the month, 
I preached to many congregations within the limits of the Owego 
quarterly meeting, and enjoyed some heavenly seasons. In Au- 
gust I attended a session of the Benton quarterly meeting at Mid- 
dlesex, and preached with nearly all the churches within fifty miles 
of Canandaigua. In some places, revivals were spreading, and 
the glory of God was shining among the people. 

It has been already stated, that unnumbered circumstances com- 
pelled me to believe, that Masonry approved of the abduction of 
Morgan, &c. ; and that, consequently, the connection of Christian 
people with the institution, became a trial to my mind. I think, 
that I cannot do justice to truth, to others, and to myself, without 
briefly relating the result of this painful conviction. 

Soon after the appearance of Morgan's ' Illustrations of Mason- 
ry,' I read — and thought within myself, ' Can this be Free Mason- 
ry, which has been called the " Handmaid of Religion ?" Can it 
he, that so many of the popular class, and even ministers of the 
gospel, have passed through these ceremonies — been divested of 
their wearing apparel — blindfolded — have entered a Lodge " in the 
name of the Lord" — and been led about a lodge-room, with a 
rope around their neck — and then sworn they would not reveal 
these things, " under no less penalty" than having their " throat 
cut across," their " tongue torn out by the roots," and their " body 
buried in the rough sands of the sea?" ' If I ha*d had no other 
guide in judging of the truth or falsity of the disclosures, I should 
have concluded from the lowness and wickedness of the ceremonies, 
obligations, &c, that they were an imposition on the public. But 
the abduction of Morgan, and a thousand circumstances connected 
with it, together with the general silence of the fraternity on the 
subject, and their evasive answers to inquiries, forbid this conclu- 
sion. 

It appeared that Capt. Morgan had not been kidnapped by a 
few individuals of low standing, but as has since been said by the 
IT. S. Anti-Masonic Convention — " Previously to his seizure, nu- 



DAVID MARKS. 191 

merous meetings of Free Masons, in lodges and otherwise, were 
held for the purpose of contriving and adopting the most certain 
means of carrying into effect, their unlawful objects upon him. 
These meetings were attended, and the designs of them approved 
by several hundred of the most respectable and intelligent of the 
Masonic brethren. They included legislators, judges, sheriffs, 
clergymen, generals, physicians, and lawyers. And they proceed- 
ed in discharge of, what they deemed, their Masonic duties." It 
also appeared by a great abundance of testimony, that Morgan was 
lodged in the jail at Canandaigua, the town of my residence, that 
he was there seized in the night, and though he cried murder, was 
thrust into a coach prepared for the occasion, and carried by differ- 
ent companies, coaches, and horses, more than one hundred miles 
through a populous country, and confined in a fortress belonging 
to the U. States, then in charge of Free Masons, who had prepar- 
ed it for his reception ; that he was confined there several days, 
and then probably murdered. Two or three of the leading men in 
this aggravating and appalling offence, were citizens of Canandai- 
gua, and men with- whom I was acquainted. As before stated, I 
supposed that those engaged in the crime would be expelled from the 
lodges ; but instead of this, if I was correctly informed, (and I 
never heard it contradicted,) those who had been the most active 
in this outrage, were held in fellowship in the lodges without ad- 
monition ; and though they had pleaded guilty to their indictments, 
apparently to prevent the extent of the conspiracy from being dis- 
covered ; — yet after they were condemned — during their imprison- 
ment, to which they had been sentenced for their crime, they liv- 
ed like gentlemen, and almost constantly shared the company of 
their brother Masons, who sat with them in the prison to " pass 
away the time." Thus the Masons generally held these criminals as 
true and worthy Masons, and every effort was used to enable them 
to escape justice and the penalties of the law ; — when, on the other 
hand, those who renounced their obligations, and confessed their 
crimes without reserve were subjected to a persecution that seem- 
ed to be without end. 

In Morgan's Illustrations it appeared that the obligation of the 
Master Mason's degree, contains the following clauses. " Further- 
more, do I promise and swear that I will support the constitution 

of the grand lodge of the state of , under which this lodge is 

. held, and conform to all the by-laws, rules, and regulations of this 
or any other lodge of which I may at any time hereafter become a 
member. Furthermore, do I promise and swear that I will obey 
all regular signs, summons or tokens, given, handed, sent or thrown, 
to me from the hand of a brother Master Mason, or from the body 
of a just and lawfully constituted lodge of such, provided it be 



192 MEMOIRS OF 






within the length of my cable-tow. Furthermore, do I promise 
and swear that a Master Mason's secrets, given to me in charge as 
such, and I knowing them to be such, shall remain as se- 
cure and inviolable in my breast as in his own, when communica- 
ted to me, murder and treason excepted ; and they left to my own 
election. Furthermore, do I promise and swear that if any part 
of this my solemn oath or obligation be omitted at this time, 
that I will hold myself amenable thereto, whenever informed. To 
all which I do most solemnly and sincerely promise and swear, 
with a fixed and steady purpose of mind in me to keep and per- 
form the same, binding myself under no less penalty, than to have 
my body severed in two in the midst, and divided to the north and 
south, my bowels burnt to ashes in the centre and the ashes scat- 
tered before the four winds of heaven, that there might not the 
least track or trace of remembrance remain among men or Masons 
of so vile and perjured a wretch as I should be, were I ever to 
prove willfully guilty of violating any part of this my solemn oath 
or obligation of a Master Mason. So help me God, and keep me 
steadfast in the due performance of the same--" 

On the clauses quoted, the following queries were suggested. 
i Has a man a right to swear to keep things secret, the nature of 
which he does not know ? Since man's life is not his own, has he 
a right, in any case, to give it as a pledge ? ' What is the design 
of the masonic penalties, unless they are to be executed ? Can an 
institution exist, with obligations and penalties, and yet have no 
means whereby the penalties may be executed, in case the obliga- 
tions are broken ? If the penalties were not to be executed, in 
case of a violation of Masonic obligations, how could the fraterni- 
ty have kept their secrets ? Has a man a right to swear to " sup- 
port" a " constitution," which he has never seen nor heard? — To 
" conform" to " by-laivs, rules and regulations" which he does not 
know ? Has a Christian a right to swear to " obey all regular signs, 
summons or tokens, given, handed, sent or thrown" from a " Master 
Mason, or from the body of a just and lawfully constituted lodge 
of such V How does he know, that the " constitution," " by-laws, 
rules, regulations, signs, summons, or tokens," will not require him 
to assist in kidnapping or murdering some one, that has thought 
the duty he owed to his God or to his country, obliged him to dis- 
close the secrets of Masonry ? How does a Master Mason know 
that among the secrets given him " in charge as such," there will 
not be theft, arson, and many other crimes — and that he will not be 
called to testify to these things in a court of justice, and thus be 
under the necessity of violating either his masonic or his judicial 
oath ? When a man takes the obligation of a Master's degree, 
has he a right to swear/ that " if any part" of the " obligation be 



DAVID MARKS. 193 

emitted at this time," he will hold himself " amenable thereto" — 
since it is not said, if it be forgotten ; but " if it be omitted" and 
he knows not what it is that is omitted, or why it is omitted ?' 

As a minister of Christ, and a watchman in Zion, I thought it 
my duty to divest myself of all prejudices, and, uninfluenced by 
attachment to my friends who were Masons, candidly search after 
the truth in answer to these queries. I visited many Christian 
people who had renounced Masonry, and they affirmed that Mor- 
gan's disclosures were true. I conversed with many who still be- 
longed to the order, and none would deny their truth in general, 
except by vague remarks or apparent cavils. I entreated them, 
if these things were not so, to take the statements by course and 
say they were not true. Many would only reply, that they did 
not wish to say any thing on the subject. 

A convention of about ninety seceding Masons, that declared in- 
dependence from the Masonic institution, published several of the 
higher degrees, which contained the following clauses. In the royal 
arch degree : " Furthermore, do I promise and swear, that I will 
aid and assist a companion royal arch Mason, when engaged in any 
difficulty ; and espouse his cause, so far as to extricate him from 
the same, if in my power, whether he be right or icrong. — Further- 
more, do I promise and swear, that a companion royal arch ma- 
son's secrets given me in charge as such, and I knowing them to 
be such, shall remain as secure and inviolable in my breast as in 
his own, murder and treason not excepted" In the degree called 
the " Holy and Thrice Illustrious Order of the Cross :" " You fur- 
ther swear, that, should you know another to violate any essential 
point of this obligation, you will use your most decided endeavors, 
by the blessing of God, to bring such person to the strictest and 
most condign punishment, agreeably to the rules and usages of our 
ancient fraternity ; and this by pointing him out to the world as an 
unworthy vagabond ; by opposing his interest, by deranging his 
business, by transferring his character after him wherever he may 
go, and by exposing him to the contempt of the whole fraternity 
and the world, but of our illustrious order more especially, during 
his whole natural life. — To all, and every part thereof, we then 
bind you, and by ancient usage you bind yourself, under the no 
less infamous penalty than dying the death of a traitor, by having 
a spear, or some other sharp instrument, like as our divine Mas- 
ter, thrust in your left side, bearing testimony, even in death, of the 
power and justice of the mark of the holy cross." 

From these testimonies, together with that of hundreds who had 

seceded, and from the testimony of Masons who had not seceded, 

I was unable to form any other conclusion than that the secrets of 

the order had been revealed. And in answer to the preceding 

17 



194 MEMOIRS OF 

queries, I was constrained to conclude that it was inconsistent for a 
Christian to be connected, in any manner whatever, with the insti- 
tution or fraternity of Free Masons. Also, that I could not dis- 
charge the duties of a " watchman" in Zion, and keep my garments 
clear from the blood of souls, without preaching publicly against 
Free Masonry, as well as against other evils. 

On Friday, August 29, 1828, I attended the Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting, at Flint creek in Middlesex. After several re- 
solves were passed on different subjects, Elder Brown and two oth- 
ers were appointed to visit some churches lately raised up in Wayne, 
and other towns, in Ashtabula county, Ohio. Brother Straight, 
myself, and some others, were appointed to visit the annual confer- 
ence of the Free Communion Baptists, in Upper Canada. After 
this, reports were presented from the four quarterly meetings, 
Bethany, Erie, Benton, and Ontario. Refreshing tidings of revi- 
vals and additions in different places, gladdened our hearts and 
strengthened our hands. It appeared by the reports, that at this 
time there were in the yearly meeting forty-nine churches, one 
thousand six hundred and fifty members, and thirty ordained minis- 
ters. 

Saturday morning, public worship commenced in a grove, previ- 
ously prepared for the occasion. Three sermons were preached, 
after which brother James Bignall of Barrington, N. Y. was or- 
dained to the work of the ministry. On the Sabbath, the assem- 
bly was large, and worship commenced at nine o'clock, A. M. Af- 
ter two discourses, brother Straight preached from Eph. 3:8, 9 : 
" Unto me who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace 
given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable 
riches of Christ," &c. The people observing that the speaker was 
a youth, and knowing it had been but a little time since he was con- 
verted, listened to his address with more than usual attention and 
solemnity. Joy and gladness, weeping and mourning, pervaded 
the assembly. At the close, brother Norton, a very aged man, re- 
cently from Vermont, arose on the stand, and sung a beautiful 
parting hymn, that was composed by one of his brethren in the east 
on his separating from them. His person was tall, erect, and 
of comely form. His eyes were sunken, and his face wrinkled by 
age ; his locks were white like wool, and his singing seemed to 
have an unusual charm. When he commenced, the assembly were 
just beginning to disperse ; all stopped, and listened with perfect 
silence, except, occasionally, several burst forth into weeping. 

In the meeting of business on Friday, the subject of Free Ma- 
sonry was again introduced. It appeared, that a number of our 
own brethren and some of our preachers had renounced their ma- 
sonic obligations ; and that the connection of some others with the 



DAVID MARKS. 195 

institution, had become a sore trial to the churches. A move was 
made, that "we consider Masonry unnecessary -, anti-scriptural, and 
wicked ; and that for a Christian to be a Mason is a crime worthy 
of admonition." After much discussion, it passed by a large ma- 
jority. Only four remained neuter ; but two voted against it, and 
these were brethren that thought their masonic obligations binding. 
But it had always been the practice of the yearly meeting, if pos- 
sible, to act unanimously : therefore they agreed to refer the sub- 
ject to the ministers' conference on Monday, for a reconsideration. 
During the yearly meeting, this was a subject of much fervent 
prayer and many tears. In the conference the resolve was chang- 
ed to the following form : " We advise the quarterly meetings and 
churches in our connexion, not to hold fellowship with active Free 
Masons ; but that they admonish such of their brethren as belong 
to the fraternity, to renounce, or withdraw their standing in the 
lodges, and in all places to refrain from advocating the system/' 



CHAPTER XIX. 

My Fourth Journey to New England. 

Having been appointed by the yearly meeting a messenger to 
the second session of the General Conference of the Free-will Bap- 
tist Connexion, to be held in New Hampshire, I left my good 
home in Canandaigua, on Monday, Sept. 8, 1828 ; and the next 
day, at Waterloo, was joined by brother Wm. Yan Tuyl, a young 
preacher who had agreed to accompany me on this journey. I had 
an interview at this place with my brother Ives, who was still se- 
rious. i O Lord, may I, shall I, ever see Ives a Christian ? O, 
grant that I may, for thy mercy's sake.' I had an appointment in 
the evening at Junius ; but, on our arrival, we found my parents 
sick, and a daughter of my step-mother apparently at the point of 
death, and unprepared for the change. A few months before, she 
was awakened, and covenanted to seek the Lord ; but through the 
influence of her associates she was persuaded to attend a ball, and 
her conviction left her. For this she now deeply sighed. The 
symptoms of death seemed floating upon her eyes; death's visage 
was upon her features : she could only tell us in a faint whisper, 
that she had no hope, while to appearance the next hour would 
conduct her to eternal scenes. It was so sickly in the vicinity, 
that there was scarcely enough in health to take care of the sick. 



196 MEMOIRS OF 

la these circumstances the parental home was gloomy. On the 
morning following, previous appointments called us to pursue our 
journey. We had a sorrowful parting, little expecting that we 
should all meet again in this world. 

Proceeding on our way, we attended meetings in Montezuma? 
Mentz, and Spafford. At the latter meeting, a young woman re- 
lated an interesting experience and desired to be baptized. I re- 
membered that six months before, I tried for several hours to per- 
suade her to turn to God, and that she then entered into a cove- 
nant to kneel and pray thrice a day for a year. She said she had 
often been sorry she made the engagement, for she became discour- 
aged, thought her prayers would be useless, and should have 
given the struggle over, had it not been for the binding influence of 
this covenant. She dared not break it. " So," said she, " I con- 
tinued seeking, and about three weeks ago the Lord converted my 
soul — now I thank God that he put it into my heart to make this 
covenant ; for, if I had not made it, probably I should not have 
sought the Lord, but have died in my sins, and have been lost for- 
ever J" She appeared to be strong in the Lord and very happy. 
After baptism, we went to the south part of the town and held a 
meeting. 

On Saturday we went to Fabius, where I had an appointment ; 
but understanding that the Spafford quarterly meeting was in ses- 
sion at New Berlin, fifty miles distant ; and that the preachers who 
had been expected to attend, were sick, or otherwise detained, I 
thought it my duty to go to the quarterly meeting. Leaving 
brother Van Tuyl to attend my appointment, I started about four 
o'clock, P. M, and reached New Berlin by ten or eleven o'clock 
next morning. The people were assembled in a grove, and as I en- 
tered, brother Adon Aldrich, the only preacher that was present, and 
some others, thanked the Lord aloud. This was the third day of 
the meeting, and I understood they had had no preaching, except 
from the assembly of saints and young converts. I took my seat 
to hear, and soon found that my lot had fallen in a heavenly place, 
and in a happy company. It seemed as though a fresh breeze 
from glory blowed gently upon us. The time was all occupied ei- 
ther in singing or speaking, and many that spoke had excellent 
gifts in exhortation. Thus the meeting continued till about twelve 
o'clock, when a little girl, who sat on her mother's lap, arose and 
sung a beautiful verse, and then, with modest confidence, address- 
ed the wicked with pathos and power. Said she, " You may slight 
the Savior now, but the time is soon coming when you will be sor- 
ry — when you pass through the dark valley and shadow of death, 
you will need this religion which you now despise." Her exhorta- 
tion was continued ten or fifteen minutes, and had much effect on 



DAVID MARKS. 197 

the assembly. I understood that she was but ten years old, and 
had been a professor of religion two years. She had been baptiz- 
ed and received into the church ; and was a steady traveller, often 
making mention of the name of the Lord. 

During the intermission, I enjoyed a sweet interview with the 
brethren and learned from them, that since the last spring, a bless- 
ed revival had been witnessed on the hills of New Berlin, and Nor- 
wich, an adjacent town. In this work many had been translated 
into the kingdom of God's dear Son. Brother Aldrich had bap- 
tized forty, and gathered a church of about fifty members, the only 
one of our denomination within fifty miles ; and a large field ap- 
peared to be opening for gospel labors. In the afternoon, I spoke 
about two hours with much freedom. Many tears were shed, and 
great solemnity rested on the people. In the evening, I preached 
near the Unadilla river. The house was crowded, and at the in- 
troduction, I counted fifty persons that stood up and sung, nearly 
all of whom appeared to " sing with the spirit, and with the under- 
standing also." On the day following I attended two meetings. 
The Lord met with us and made them impressive to many. 

From Norwich, I went to Windsor, to attend the Susquehanna 
yearly meeting, and there met brother Van Tuyl. On Friday, 
Sept. 19, 1828, the second session of this yearly meeting com- 
menced, and continued with much interest until Sabbath evening. 
Several good discourses were given by different preachers, and 
many spiritual exhortations contributed to the interest and profit 
of the meeting. It fell to my lot to speak two or three times : it 
pleased the Lord to give me freedom, and bless his word to the 
awakening of some, who afterwards professed to find peace in be- 
lieving. Sabbath evening, brother B. A. Russel was ordained to 
the work of the ministry. 

The Susquehanna yearly meeting was organized a year before 
this time at Dryden, New York. It now consisted of three quar- 
terly meetings, Owego, Gibson and Spafford. The Owego quar- 
terly meeting was gathered about the year 1818, through the in- 
strumentality of brethren from Vermont. Spafford quarterly 
meeting was organized in 1827. About the same year, the Gib- 
son quarterly meeting was formed principally from several church- 
es that had formerly constituted a yearly meeting of Free Com- 
muni on Baptists. The numbers in the yearly meeting were not 
exactly ascertained. The probable estimate was as follows, eigh- 
teen churches, twelve ordained ministers and H\e hundred and fif- 
ty-five members. 

Monday, after a few minutes notice, I preached standing under 
a tree, to about one hundred people in Bainbridge. Some heard with 
tenderness. We proceeded to New Berlin, and next day met an 
17* 



198 MEMOIRS OF 

assembly in the grove where the quarterly meeting was held. I 
preached on repentance, faith, and baptism, and enjoyed some free- 
dom. 

On Wednesday we continued our journey eastward, and in eight 
days arrived at Randolph, Vt., a distance of two hundred and six- 
teen miles. On our way we held five meetings : the first was in 
Johnstown, N. York, where we stopped to feed our horses. I pass- 
ed into the street, and observing the people running to and fro, 
while all seemed thoughtless of God and eternity, I felt a cry in 
my soul, and concluded to embrace the opportunity, for rebuking, 
exhorting, &c, out of season" 2 Tim. 4:2 : and obtaining liberty 
of the owner, I stood on a platform, before a store in the centre of 
the village, and began to preach from Rev. 6:17 : " For the great 
day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?'' 
About one hundred and fifty or two hundred people listened to 
the word, notwithstanding it rained ; and when I was speaking on 
the last proposition of the text, a certain judge interrupted me, 
saying, " Friend, you must stop ; — this is very improper — you are 
disturbing the people. There are houses enough to preach in." I re- 
plied, that I had no intention of disturbing the people ; that on en- 
tering their village, I heard the voice of profane swearing, and no 
one forbid it ; and, that I supposed, if I preached Christ to them 
in the " highw ay" no one would attempt to prevent me. He on- 
ly replied, that it was improper, and then departed. Immediately 
a lawyer seized me, and by a sudden pull, brought me nearly to the 
ground, saying, " Come and go with me to jail" I asked him why 
he would imprison me. He replied, " For disturbing the peace of 
the village" and demanded a reason for my conduct. I told him 
that I was one of those servants whom the Lord had sent out into 
the " highways and hedges," &c, and asked him if it was disturb- 
ing their peace to try to persuade the wicked from the way to hell. 
He halted, and looking me sternly in the face, commanded me to 
stop, saying, " I will hear no such talk." The people gathered 
around in a throng, and some cried, " He is crazy — flog him." 
Others said, " He did not talk like a crazy man ; but the more 
part remained silent. While the lawyer was holding me, I discov- 
ered from his breath, that he used " strong drink." He then said, 
if I would leave the place in silence, he would let me go. I told 
him, that because my time to stay had now expired, I intended, if 
dismissed, to leave immediately. As he let me go, I said, " Your 
blood be upon your own head" He turned suddenly toward me, 
as though he thought I had threatened his life, and demanded what 
I meant by this saying. One that stood by, told him that it was a 
saying of Scripture, and that my meaning was, that I was clear 
from his guilt, and that he would bear it alone. He said, " So be 



DAVID MARKS. 199 

#," and left me. Many followed me to my carriage, invited me 
to their dwellings, and earnestly entreated me to remain till even- 
ing, and preach in the court house, or in one of their meeting 
houses. But duty called us to haste on our way. As we left the 
town, the Lord poured his Spirit upon me, and caused me greatly 
to rejoice. The other meetings were in Broad Albin, Wilton, and 
Kingsbury. 

Friday, Oct. 3, 1828, we attended the Vermont yearly meeting 
conference in Randolph. * The principal subject discussed, was 
Free Masonry. Several brethren in this state had seceded from 
the institution, testified that its works are evil, and that the disclos- 
ures made by Capt. William Morgan, and others, were true. It 
appeared that these circumstances had induced many brethren to 
examine the nature and tendency of the oaths and ceremonies of 
the order. The result was, that the allegiance of brethren to the 
institution became a trial. The subject appeared to have been first 
introduced into the church in this town, and afterwards referred to 
the yearly meeting. When the discussion began, I had not a thought 
of taking any active part. I was young — a stranger to nearly all, 
and I said, " Days should speak, and multitude of years should 
teach wisdom." Again, all my brethren were dear to me, and I 
thought I would not chill the feelings of any by engaging in a 
point of dispute. But, unexpectedly, I felt an impression from 
the Spirit of the Lord to open my mouth, and I dared not disobey. 
Like Ephraim, I "spoke trembling," and remarked, that secrecy 
is a sign of iniquity ; that men boast of their good deeds, and often 
publish them as by the sound of a trumpet ; but, their evil deeds, 
of which they are ashamed, they conceal ; therefore said our Sa- 
vior, " Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds are 
evil" After this, I quoted several passages of Scripture, to show T 
that the works of Christ were wrought openly, that " in secret" 
he " said nothing" &e. I spoke about an hour with much free- 
dom, and presented many testimonies, showing what are the oaths 
and ceremonies of the institution. Little more was advanced in 
favor of Masonry. 

A preacher, who said in the commencement of the discussion, 
that he was included among its defendants, observed that it would 
seem to be useless to say anything in defence of Masonry, yet he 
must dissent from my remarks. This was about all he said, except, 
near the close, he remarked, that he was a royal arch Mason, and 
that the clause, " right or wrong" contained in what was called 
Masonry, were words that had not escaped his lips, that before God, 
he would say to this yearly meeting he had never taken such an 
obligation. Upon this Capt. D , a brother, arose, and said that 



200 MEMOIRS 0£ 

he was a royal arch mason, and felt tried ; " For/' said he, " I 
once asked this brother," alluding to the one that had just spoken, 
u how he got along with this part of the obligation, " right or 
wrong V y He replied, that he refused to take it, and being urged 
for half an hour, he at last told the one that administered the oath, 
that he would not take it, if they drew him in quarters, and that 
upon this, the phraseology w r as so changed that he took the obliga- 
tion. Brother D. now wept profusely, and renounced his allegi- 
ance to the institution. To this explanation, the preacher that first 
spoke, made no reply ; but appeared to be much attached to Ma- 
sonry, and after the meeting, told me, that he could go no further 
with me. , I asked him to go alone with me and pray ; he refused, 
saying, he had gone with me to the end of his faith. It is but just, 
however, to add, that this preacher renounced his masonic obliga- 
tions in less than one year. After many weighty and spiritual 
testimonies, the conference passed a resolve, that " Free Masonry 
is the unfruitful works of darkness," entreating all their brethren 
who had been connected with it, to come out from it and have no 
fellowship with it. 

I had never taken part in any discussion with more reluctance 
than I did on this occasion. My course was entirely contrary to 
my natural inclination, to my earthly interest, and to my expecta- 
tion. I felt the tenderest regard for my brethren that were Ma- 
sons ; and while I felt pressed by the Spirt of the Lord to testify 
against the system, I wept for them day and night. But what are 
the feelings of my brethren, what are my own feelings, when they 
come in competition with the requirements of God! Some seem- 
ed to be offended, and the preacher named before, asked me if I 
had not been employed to come from N. York on purpose to oppose 
Masonry. But though by this course my influence with many 
might be diminished, I enjoyed what I prized above the friendship 
of a world — peace of conscience — peace with God. 

On Saturday, worship continued through the day with much 
spirituality. On the Sabbath, the house was crowded and hun- 
dreds stood without. Elder Morse gave a short, but good discourse ; 
after which, I addressed the people about two hours. In the after- 
noon, Elder Harvey preached an interesting sermon. The meet- 
ing was solemn, and at times much tenderness was observed in the 
assembly. After it closed, as I passed out of the house, Major F. 
gave me a dollar ; tears started in his eyes, and he said, " Pray 
for me." I understood that he had been a Universalist, also that 
he was the first that publicly renounced Masonry in Vermont. 

On Monday I spoke to a considerable assembly in Tunbridge ; 
some wept, and some were happy. In the evening I addressed a 






DAVID MARKS. 201 

crowded congregation in Strafford. Next morning we proceeded 
on our journey, and in a little more than two days arrived at Sand- 
wich in New Hampshire. 

On Thursday, Oct. 9, 1828, the General Conference opene din 
this town at 9 o'clock, A. M. Messengers were present from 
Maine eastern, and Maine western yearly meetings, — from the 
yearly meetings in New Hampshire, Vermont, Holland Purchase, 
and Ohio, and from tlie R. I. quarterly meeting ; and during its sit- 
ting, forty or fifty ministers attended. Elder Nathaniel King, of Vt. 
was appointed moderator, and Elder John Buzzell, of Maine, as- 
sistant moderator. At the previous session in 1827, brother Ho- 
sea Quinby had been chosen standing clerk. Among the subjects 
discussed, on which resolves were passed in Conference was the 
following : — 

Speculative Free Masonry. — The Vermont yearly meeting con- 
ference presented their resolves against Masonry, asking liberty to 
publish them in the Morning Star, a religious paper designed for 
the benefit of the Free-will Baptist denomination. An indefinite 
postponement was moved. I had resolved that I would be silent 
on the subject. Brethren from Vermont beckoned to me more 
than once, but I persisted in my resolution till I felt that the Lord 
required me to open my mouth. Then I spoke against the motion, 
and argued, from the disclosures that had been made of the se- 
crets of Masonry — from the nature and tendency of the institution, 
that the resolves of the Vermont yearly meeting were righteous, 
and ought to be known to the denomination. Soon after I com- 
menced speaking, some brother asked the moderator if I was not 
" out of order" He answered in the negative, and I continued my 
address about an hour with much freedom. I felt the Spirit of the 
Lord assisting me, and there was much weeping in the Conference. 
When I spoke — for anything I knew to the contrary, — all the fa- 
thers in the connexion that were present might be Masons. But 
my joy w^as great, and I thanked God, on finding that Elders Buz- 
zell and King, and the aged men that had borne the burden in the 
heat of the day, and had led this connexion as a flock, had ever 
stood opposed to the institution. A large majority voted against 
the motion, and the conference agreed to give the Vermont yearly 
meeting conference liberty to publish their resolves in the Star.* 

After an adjournment, Elder Buzzell asked me how I dared, 
since I was but a young man, to speak as I had against Masonry 
before the aged, &c. I replied, in the language of David, " Is 

* Through some means, or some misunderstanding, these particulars concerning Ma- 
sonry ne-ver found place in the minutes of the General Conference. It is, however, but 
just to add, that the standing clerk is not a mason. He is a man whom I highly es- 
teem. 



202 MEMOIRS OF 

there not a cause ?' He said with a smile, " Yes — is there not a 
cause ?" 

The business of the Conference in general, was conducted with 
much unanimity of sentiment and feeling ; and all appeared to be 
of the opinion, that the continuance of a General Conference was 
needful for the prosperity of the denomination. Still, some fear- 
ed that its resolves might yet be so construe^ as to form a disci- 
pline, and thus supplant one of the first principles of the denomi- 
nation, viz. " To hold the New Testament as the only written law 
or rule for the government of the church." I understood, howev- 
er, that all the members of the Conference considered the object 
of this convention to be, not to make laws for the church, but to 
search for an understanding of the perfect law that Christ has made, 
and hold it up for the benefit of all. For " in the multitude of 
counsellors there is safety" 

The meeting of business continued three days ; and during the 
time, meetings of worship were held on every evening, at one, two, 
or three places, and once or twice in the afternoon. On one eve- 
ning I spoke at the Ridge meeting-house, from James 4:10 : 
" Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord" On the Sabbath, 
meetings were held at two meeting houses in Sandwich. In the 
forenoon, a funeral discourse was preached on the death of Elder 
Thomas Jackson, at one place, by Elder J. White, and at the other 
by Elder A. Caverno. A solemn season was enjoyed at the old 
meeting house ; and at the Ridge, I understood that it was a time 
of much weeping. In the afternoon I spoke at the old meeting 
house ; and in the evening, worship was attended in various parts 
of the town, and some appearances of a revival rejoiced our 
hearts. 

On Monday I went to the house of sister Quinby, a widow in 
Israel. I was in this family four years before, and now under- 
stood, that at the first meeting which I then held, while I was 
speaking of the sufferings of Christ, it pleased the Lord to bless 
the word to the awakening of Hosea, a son of sister Quinby. In 
about two months he obtained peace, soon became a preacher 
and was now clerk of the General Conference.* l O Lord, help 
him and me to be humble as the apostolic Christians, and meek as 
the holy Jesus.' 

The ensuing week was occupied in preaching in Parsonsfield, 
Newfield, Limerick, and attending the Parsonsfield quarterly meet- 
ing in Limington, Me. In the latter place, several had been re- 
cently converted, and the church had at this time, between two and 
three hundred members. 

* Mr. Quinby is now principal of Smithville Seminary, in R. Island. [Ed. 



DAVID MARKS. 203 

Having sent appointments to Weare quarterly meeting, and al- 
so to the north part of Vermont, Tuesday, Oct. 1, I left brother 
Van Tuyl, expecting to meet him in Sutton, Vermont, and preach- 
ed in the evening at Weeks' corner in Parsonsfield. The school 
house was filled, about fifty stood without, and though the evening 
was cold, they continued to hear till the discourse was closed. 
Many wept. Monday evening I spoke to three or four hundred 
in Sandwich ; after which I received an interesting letter from a 
young man of that town, who informed me, that at the meetings I 
had lately attended in that place, his mind was much wrought up- 
on by the Spirit ; that he had been brought to repent of his sins, 
and that now his heart was filled with the love of God, &c* ' O 
that the Lord may bless and keep him in the truth of Jesus.' 

I next visited several churches in Weare quarterly meeting. In . 
Bradford I found, to my great joy, that God was again pouring out 

*This young man was Samuel Beede, a Quaker. He was well educated, and pos- 
sessed more than a common intellect. As he afterwards was a prominent man in the 
Free-will Baptist denomination, and exerted much influence over the subject of this Me- 
moir, the reader may be interested in an extract from this letter. — Ed. 

" My Christian Brother, 

Thou mayest think strange at being thus addressed by a stranger, but af- 
ter a little explanation, thou mayest not wonder that I should have a desire to do thus. 
On Thursday, the 9th inst., I met a stranger in the street whose countenance greatly 
struck me, and I said with myself, "This is a heavenly messenger." On the evening of 
the following day, I attended meeting where I had been told that David Marks, a stran- 
ger from the west, was expected to preach. He was the man whom I met in the street. 
And indeed he did preach — and he preached the gospel too, which touched my heart, and 
smote my breast with deep repentance, and kindled the most ardent desires to become a 
true follower of Jesus. The next day, I attended meeting in the P. M., but I saw noth- 
ing of David again till the 12th, in the A. M., I saw him weeping. Probably, thought I, 
his heart is filled with the love of Jesus, and with a sense of the undone situation of 
poor sinners, and these things cause him to weep. I thought then, David will have 
something for us this afternoon, and my expectations were realized: for the gospel was 
again proclaimed, and reached the hearts of many. Blessed be God our Savior, for the 
love of Jesus that filled my heart. I shall never forget it while I live. When the meet- 
ing closed, I felt as though I must speak with David before he left the town ; but, as I 
could not then, I concluded to attend the evening meeting where Elder Bowles was ex- 
pected to preach. Perhaps thou mayest recollect that as thou wast about to enter the 
house, a person inquired thy name, and then fell into weeping. That was the person 
who now addresses thee. So unexpected an interview, together with a sense of the 
low state of Zion, and of the wickedness of my own heart, filled me with such tender- 
ness, and such desires for the prosperity of the church, and the repentance of sinners, 
that I could not refrain from weeping. But ah! my friend, when I come to speak of the 
meeting, words and language must fail me. The blessed joys of that heavenly season 
cannot be expressed. I was never at such a meeting before. The power of the gospel 
was poured forth as a river. It seemed to me the whole audience were almost persuad- 
ed to be Christians. Several, I know, were smitten to the heart and almost ready to 
come forward and confess Jesus their Savior : and I will tell thee, my friend, that I was 
one of those myself who had long heen almost persuaded to be a Christian. My situa- 
tion and feelings were told to me by Elder Bowles and my friend David much better 
than I could have told them myself. * * My soul was completely filled with the love 
of Jesus, and I thought that if it should appear to be my duty, I should be willing to tes- 
tify for Jesus at that meeting. But I could not see that I had anything more to do at 
that time than submit to the will of God, and tell my feelings to those who had handled 
His word so skillfully for the good of my soul. Blessed be the name of the Lord for the 
peace I find in submitting my will to His. Do, my friend, pray for me and the others 
who were with me tenderly affected at that meeting. 

Since that evening, my soul has been filled with tenderness and prayer. Weeping and 
mourning over Zion have been my constant companions. My very heart seems willing 
to leave all and follow Jesus. I almost long to go with David to proclaim salvation to 



204 MEMOIRS OF 

his Spirit on this people, and that eighty persons had professed to 
pass from death unto life. Several of the converts, I understood, 
dated their awakening from the revival in this place nearly five 
years before. I held two meetings with them, and we were hap- 
pier than the kings of the earth. Fishersfield had also been bless- 
ed with some revival. Thursday, October 30, I rode fifty-nine 
miles to Lisbon and preached in the evening. My soul was hap- 
py. The day following I held a meeting in Waterford, Vt. Some 
wept, others rejoiced and thought this a good meeting ; but to me 
it was a dark time. 

On Saturday I was joined by brother Van Tuyl. Sabbath we 
met about four hundred people assembled in the meeting house 
built by Elder John Colby. A large number of this assembly 
were disciples of Jesus. In the forenoon I spoke from Isa. 25:6, 
7, 8: and in the afternoon from Mark 16:15, 16. In both meet- 
ings, I believe the Lord stood at my right hand and blessed the 
word of truth. In the evening we were accompanied by Elder 
Jonathan Woodman and wife, to the house of brother David Colby, 
a preacher of the gospel, and a brother to John Colby, who now 
rests from his labors. We held a meeting in the neighborhood, 
and spent the night at the dwelling of brother Colby. In this 
house, Elder John Colby lived in youth, and from it commenced 
his extensive travels and gospel labors, which wore out his life in 
the morning of his days. My mind was filled with solemn reflec- 
tion, while viewing the places that had witnessed his tears^ and 
lodging in the room which he finished for his place of rest, study, 
and devotion. In the morning we visited his father, Dea. Thomas 
Colby, whom we found in the evening of life, strong in the Lord, 
and waiting in full expectation of the rest that his son, and some others 
of his family, had gone to enjoy. After a short and agreeable vis- 
it, we returned with brother Woodman, from whom we received 
some favors. " It is more blessed to give than to receive" 

Our interview with brother Woodman was interesting. He had 
just returned from Montpelier, where he had served as chaplain to 
the legislature in its last session. He was called to the ministry at 
an early age, and, through the blessing of God, his labors have 
been very useful. He is still but a young man. For the sake of 
Zion, may his life be continued long on the earth. On Tuesday 
forenoon we held a meeting in the north part of Danville. It was 

dying sinners. If my God should call me, I feel as though I could say with thee, "I 
will preach the gospel, if I beg my bread" Do assure thyself that as an ambassador of 
Jesus, thou hast the highest affection of my soul in the love of the gospel. My spirit 
goes with thee in carrying the gospel to sinners. My daily prayers are for thy success 
and prosperity in the truth. May the Lord Jesus Christ be with thee henceforth and 
forever, Amen. Yours in love, Samuel Beede. 

Sandwich, Oct. 21, 1828. 



DAVID MARKS. 205 

a solemn season, yet if the Lord sent us to this place, it might be 
said to the people, " I was a hungered, and ye gave me no meat : 
— I was a stranger and ye took me not in f for no one invited us 
to take any refreshment — so we proceeded on our way in the rain. 
But it is enough that the servant be as his Lord. Continuing our 
journey, we attended meetings in Topsham, Orange, Corinth, Tun- 
bridge — and on Saturday arrived at Randolph. These opportuni- 
ties were blessed of the Lord. ' O, that I may meet some fruits 
of them in heaven.' 

Sabbath, Nov. 9, 1828, I preached with freedom to about seven 
hundred people in Randolph, from Ps. 50:21, 22. They were 
generally solemn, and many wept. We were affectionately receiv- 
ed in brother Arnold's family, who, with other brethren and friends, 
communicated to us liberally such things as we needed. May the 
Lord reward their kindness. In the afternoon, Elder Ziba Pope 
accompanied us twelve miles to Bethel, where I preached in the 
evening. We staid at an inn, and in the morning Elder Pope 
kindly paid our bill. We then parted with him, crossed the Green 
Mountains to West Rutland, and on the next day preached in 
Kingsbury, but had a dark, trying time. Yet the saying of our 
Lord, " Blessed are the poor in spirit" &c, comforted me. We 
next held meetings in Wilton and Broad Albin ; and on Saturday 
arrived at Plainfield, N. Y. Sabbath forenoon, we enjoyed a good 
season at the Free Communion Baptist meeting house in Winfield, 
and in the afternoon, I preached to a few in the Seventh-Day Bap- 
tist meeting house at Brookfield. We stopped the next day with 
my friend S. Gardiner, and held a meeting at his house. But, alas ! 
how had seven years changed the scene — and how different was 
the general state of feeling from what it was eight years be- 
fore, when sinners were flocking to Jesus ! As the converts were 
not gathered into any particular church, they had become greatly 
scattered. Some had joined different denominations, some had 
backslidden, some had removed, and some had gone " the way of 
all the earth." While viewing the different state of things, I ex- 
claimed with sorrow, " How is the gold become dim ! how is the 
most fine gold changed !" The godly man hath ceased, and the 
voice of devotion hath faltered on the lips of the convert. The 
Lord gave me freedom in speaking : yet a cloud of thick darkness 
seemed to hang over the people, and Zion appeared to be clothed 
with mourning. Yet I had a witness that my garments were clear 
from the blood of sinners in Brookfield. 

Wednesday, Nov. 19, we proceeded to Norwich, and were kind- 
ly received by brother Richmond and family. A few had been 
converted and six had been baptized since my former visit. In 
the evening we held a meeting ; and the next day went to an ap- 
18 



206 MEMOIRS OF 

pointment at the white meeting house on the Unadilla river; but 
the day being stormy, the door was locked, and only one person 
appeared. We kneeled on the steps, united in prayer, and then 
departed. Soon we met with several whose attention had been at- 
tracted, and they solicited us to return. The door being opened, 
about twenty assembled, and I spoke from Luke 10:42. 

On Friday we held a meeting in Eaton, and were blessed with 
the free Spirit. We proceeded to Fabius and tarried over the 
Sabbath. I gave two discourses and brother Van Tuyl one. 
Monday we met a large assembly in Spafford, and saw some signs 
of a good work. One said, that when we came to this place be- 
fore, she was in her sins, but the Lord sent the word to her heart, 
and she believed he had converted her soul. After preaching in 
the north part of the town, we held meetings as we proceeded, in 
Elbridge, Cato and Mentz. Friday, Nov. 28, we arrived at my . 
father's, and, unexpectedly, found my sister, whom we left at the 
point of death, still alive. Her health was partially restored, and 
she appeared much concerned for the salvation of her soul. 

Sabbath, Nov. 30, though laboring under much indisposition, I 
attended two meetings in Junius ; and the next day, on our way to 
Canandaigua, preached to a few in Waterloo with freedom. We 
were affectionately received by our friends in Canandaigua. Here 
brother Van Tuyl left me, and returned to his parents in Jerusa- 
lem. During the time he had accompanied me, he generally labor- 
ed under great trials respecting his duty in the church. He pray- 
ed much, and sometimes, after the journey of the day, spent half 
the night in supplication to God. Still he seemed to have as deep 
a sense of his unworthiness as any Christian I ever saw. But 
about the time of our return, he became settled in the belief, that 
God had called him to the gospel ministry, and that he would 
strengthen him in obedience. He had generally spoken by exhor- 
tation ; but now he resolved to give himself up to God, and ven- 
ture forth preaching the doctrine of the gospel, and his peace be- 
came settled. We had journeyed with each other fifteen hundred 
miles ; our hearts were knit together, and we enjoyed the sweetest 
union : yes, we truly knew the joys of Christian friendship. Pre- 
vious to our separation, we retired and joined in solemn prayer. 



DAVID MARKS. 207 



CHAPTER XX. 



Particulars of my Travels, fyc. for Jive months after my Return 
from New England, 

Saturday, Dec. 6, 1828, I attended monthly meeting with the 
church in Canandaigua, and our hearts were comforted together. 
I continued in the town a few days, and held several meetings. In 
the first of these, it pleased the Lord to send the word with power 
to the heart of a young man who had been much opposed to God 
and his people. Others also became serious, and an encouraging 
prospect caused joy to sprmg up in our hearts. 

During this month, I went to the Holland Purchase, visited many 
churches, and enjoyed some precious seasons. In Clarkson and 
Parma, a revival had commenced under the labors of Elder Eli 
Hannibal, and was progressing gloriously. In the last of the 
month I returned eastward, and on Saturday and Sabbath, Jan. 
3 and 4, 1829, attended the Ontario quarterly meeting at Galen. 
Several were awakened and one hopefully converted. It was said 
that no session of this quarterly meeting had been so interesting 
as this. Several received letters of commendation to preach the 
gospel, and three churches containing about ninety members, were 
received into the quarterly meeting. 

From Galen I returned to Canandaigua, and, to my great joy, I 
found an increasing attention to the things of God. On the 9th 
and 10th of January, several others, with myself, went from Can- 
andaigua to attend the Benton quarterly meeting at Middlesex. 
Among the number was the young man, that was awakened at my 
first meeting after my return from N. England, and also his com- 
panion, whom he had just married. She was also seeking the Lord. 
We enjoyed a comforting season -through the meeting, and at the 
close the young man's wife was brought into liberty. On Monday 
we returned to Canandaigua, and in the evening had a meeting. 
After several had spoken, the young man said, it had been a sub- 
ject of much query with him, why he did not find a pardon of his 
sins. " But," said he, " I have concluded, it is because I have not 
given up my young companions, for still I fear their persecutions 
and dread their vain laughter. I will give them up." Then he 
fell on his knees and solemnly bade his associates farewell, declar- 
ing, that by the help of God, he would go with them in sin no 
longer. He arose, sat awhile, then fell again on his knees and 
said, " O Lord God, thou hast converted my companion, and why 
may not my poor soul be converted !" Soon his voice seemed to 



208 MEMOIRS OF 

falter, and after a little pause, he said, " Lord, it begins to come ; 
I thank thee — but there is some burden yet left ; Lord, take it all 
away." He seemed to plead with God, as a man pleadeth to the 
face of a friend, till his burden was all removed. Then he arose 
and praised the Lord aloud, and took every unconverted person in 
the assembly by the hand, and exhorted each to forsake sin, and 
begin with him to seek for immortality. I never saw the hand of 
God more visible in the conversion of a soul, than in this instance. 
The assembly was small, and there was not one whose heart was 
unmoved, or that refused to bend the knee. From this time the 
seriousness of several began to increase. 

Having been appointed with brother Van Tuyl to preach once 
in two weeks with the churches in the Benton quarterly meeting, 
the ensuing two weeks were occupied with my first tour. Some 
of the assemblies were very large, and were scenes of thrilling in- 
terest. « 

Sabbath, Feb. 1, 1829, was as beautiful a winter day as I ever 
saw. It seemed to me that the earth was full of the glory of 
the Lord. I spoke to a considerable assembly in Milo, and in the 
latter part of the meeting much solemnity rested on the people. 
* O that men would give " earnest heed" to the things which belong 
to their eternal peace, in the day of their visitation.' My health 
had become so impaired by my excessive labors, that I thought it 
duty to rest a little, and refused the entreaties of some friends to 
attend a meeting in the evening. But, nothwithstanding, they gave 
out the appointment. I endeavored to speak to the people, though 
in much weakness, and with little liberty. 

Feb. 7, I attended a meeting in Canandaigua, and found the 
prospect so promising, that I decided to remain and labor for a lit- 
tle season with the people. The next day was the Sabbath. Af- 
ter the close of my evening sermon, a daughter of a noted deist 
arose, confessed her need of salvation and determination to seek it. 
For four days I visited and prayed from house to house, and re- 
joiced to find a few resolved to seek salvation. I attended two 
meetings, in one of which I spoke from the saying of certain 
Greeks, " Sir, we would see Jesus" A desire to see Jesus was in- 
creased in the minds of some, several kneeled, their cries and 
groans were heard through the assembly, and one was converted. 

On Saturday and Sabbath I attended appointments in Poultney, 
and in the early part of the week held three meetings in Canandai- 
gua ; some confessed their sins, and one professed to be born of God. 
I visited a man that had been sick the greater part of two years, 
and was now given over by his physician. He said that he had 
never been confined a day till this sickness ; yet he had neither 
feared nor served God ; and now he was confident he had but few 



dAyid marks. 209 

days to live — was still unprepared, and had awful fears of the 
change to which he was swiftly hastening. With bitter weeping 
he lamented his neglect, and cried to God for mercy, and asked 
others to pray for him. Alas ! what multitudes thus neglect God, 
and are filled with confusion when death begins to cast its gloomy 
shade around them. They see me end of their associates, yet re- 
fuse to take warning, till they themselves are plunged into the same 
wo. " that men were wise, that they ivould consider their latter 
end" Friday, Feb. 20, brother William Yan Tuyl had an ap- 
pointment to preach with us ; but as he did not come, I gave a dis- 
course. We enjoyed a favored season : two spoke and requested 
prayers. Our meetings on the Sabbath were solemn. I gave a 
discourse from Jer. 8:20 : " The harvest is past, the summer is end- 
ed, and we are not saved" 

On Tuesday I left Canandaigua to go to the Susquehanna river, 
intending to return immediately. I was informed at Waterloo, that 
brother William Yan Tuyl was sick with the mumps, which was 
the reason he did not attend his appointment. On Thursday eve- 
ning I arrived at the house of Elder E. Dodge in Dryden, and 
here I heard, "William Yan Tuyl is dead!" For a few min- 
utes I was " slow of heart to believe ;" then the reality rushed up- 
on me like a flood ; and for half an hour grief so overcame me, 
that I could scarcely retain my breath. f William was dear to me, 
and it seemed but yesterday that he held my hand and prayed by 
my side. I felt that the hand of the Lord had indeed touched 
me. William, my companion in travel, and in the bonds of the 
gospel, is gone ; and I shall not see him again till I go to the other 
world. O what a satisfaction it would be could I have one more 
conversation with him. But no ! if I visit his grave, it will be si- 
lent ; and if I speak at his tomb, it will not answer me. William 
was my friend. I knew of none on earth that loved me more 6 
Many a half night have we spent together, when the fields witness- 
ed our devotions, and the Lord heard our prayers. I anticipated 
comfort with him in days to come. But now he is cut off from life 
at the early age of twenty-three. O, how suddenly was he called !'. 
In the vigor of health, and in the strength of youth, he has fallen/ 
Leaving Dryden, I rode more than twenty miles, to Owego, with- 
out stopping; and for several miles I could not refrain from weep- 
ing aloud. 

In the early part of the week I went, by request, to visit a revi- 
val in Greece, near "Rochester, and attended a conference, which 
was conducted as these useful meetings generally are in times of 
revival. It was thought one hundred in the vicinity had experi- 
enced a saving change within four months. I preached three times 
with much freedom, and rejoiced to hear the converts praise the 
18* 



210 MEMOIRS OF 

Lord. They were much engaged.; their testimonies were in the 

Spirit, and in quick succession. 

Returning to Canandaigua, T spent the Sabbath, March 15, with 
the church. Our evening meeting ^as^endered very solemn by 
the power of God* Five spoke in a veryaflfeoting manner, and ex- 
pressed much anxiety to find salfetion. At the close of the meet- 
ing, twenty persons promised to observe the next day as a solemn 
fast. Then a young convert, who had acknowledged that the Scrip- 
tures required him to he baptized, but had neglected this command- 
ment, because he Celt no particular impression to obedience, arose 
and said, that lie now considered it his duty to keep all his Lord's 
precepts, and, as the next day was appointed for a fast, he would 
follow his Lord in baptism. Accordingly, at the hour appointed, 
the people assembled, and the Lord met with us. The young man 
was baptized, and became a useful member of the church. 

During the week, I commenced a second tour through the 
churches of Benton quarterly meeting. March 27, I met an as- 
sembly at the school house in Milo, where brother Van Tuyl had 
preached his last discourse. I stood in the place, once occupied by 
him, and with many tears gave vent to the feelings of my heart. I 
spent the night at the house of brother Randolph, where brother 
Van Tuyl closed his eyes in death. The family gave me the fol- 
lowing particulars: After returning from his appointment, he laid 
himself on the bed and said, " I shall no more arise" They then 
sent twelve miles to his parents, and informed them of his situa- 
tion. When his mother entered his apartment, she was surprised 
at his feeble appearance, and exclaimed, "O William, my son, do 
you think you shall get well ?" He replied, " Dear mother, it 
concerns me little, whether I live or die." Having taken cold, 
while travelling to meet his appointments, his disorder was past 
cure. He endured severe distress with much patience, and often 
expressed his willingness to depart. He adjusted his temporal 
concerns with calmness, and gave a suit of clothes to a poor preach- 
er. His constitution was naturally strong, but in one week it 
yielded to the violence of disorder, and he approached the gate of 
death. His friends, seeing that he was failing fast, asked him the 
state of his mind. Being unable to talk, he requested a hymn 
book, and pointed them to the twenty-seventh hymn, of the first 
book of Dr. Watts, as expressive of his feelings. 

" Death may dissolve my body now, 

Ami bear iny spirit home; 
Why do my minutes move so slow, 

Nor my deliverer come." &c. 

During his sickness, he had not once expressed a desire to re- 
cover, but seemed to rejoice in the expectation of his change. Be- 



DAVID MARKS. 211 

ing asked if he felt willing to depart, he said, " Yes." This was 
his last word ; then, with sweet composure in his countenance, he 
lifted his hand toward heaven, — it fell on his bosom, and he sunk 
in the embraces of death. He had requested that I should preach 
at his funeral ; but his parents not knowing where they could find 
me, called on Elder Bignall, who delivered a sermon on the oc- 
casion. 

Previous to his journey to New England, he had intended to 
study medicine, and made an engagement for that purpose ; but, at 
the yearly meeting in Middlesex, the earnest requests for preach- 
ing that were presented from almost every direction, touched his 
heart, and reminded him of his call. Retiring with me to a field, 
he fell on his face, and for a long time wept aloud ; then he cov- 
enanted to abandon his temporal prospects, and submit himself to 
God. After returning from New England, till his last sickness he 
preached constantly, with freedom, and to general satisfaction. I 
saw him for the last time at the January term of the Benton quar- 
terly meeting, and then, expecting to meet soon, we parted with- 
out bidding each other farewell. Thus thousands of friends sep- 
arate, expecting soon to see each other, but meet not again in this 
world. On Saturday morning I spent more than two hours at his 
grave in solemn reflection, and felt that it was better for me to go 
to the tomb of a friend, than to visit the house of mirth. 

I held four meetings in Milo, and one in Barrington ; and on 
Wednesday, preached in Middlesex. Signs of revival in this vi- 
cinity had encouraged the brethren, and ten now covenanted to 
seek the Lord. Some of them wept aloud, and appeared to be 
near the kingdom of God. Shortly afterwards, the greater part of 
these professed to find Christ. I held meetings in two other neigh- 
borhoods in Middlesex, and on Saturday returned to Canandaigua. 
I commenced my late journey with a wagon ; but in consequence 
of a fall of snow on the first Sabbath, I was under the necessity of 
borrowing an old sleigh, which t used ten days, and in the time 
travelled a circuitous tour of one hundred miles. The ground be- 
ing bare half of this distance, I walked the greater part of the way, 
and was obliged to pay nearly seven dollars for the use of the 
sleigh. This is a specimen of the frequent expenses of an itiner- 
ant preacher, who will not let small difficulties cause him to disap- 
point an assembly. 

Sabbath, April 5, I preached in Canandaigua, and baptized a 
young convert, who was added to the church. The church was 
happily united ; and though the revival had ceased to spread, there 
were several serious inquirers, and their sighs frequently gave ad- 
ditional solemnity to our meetings. The ensuing week, I held 
meetings in several towns between Canandaigua and Scriba, and 



212 MEMOIRS OF 

on Sabbath, April 12, preached to a crowd of people assembled at 
the latter place. Nearly a year had passed since my last visit to 
this town. Though the church had enjoyed little preaching in the 
time, its members remained steadfast — and of the twenty-three that 
I baptized, I believe none had turned back after satan. This gave 
me much joy. I spent eight days in Scriba and the towns in its 
vicinity. Our meetings were favored seasons. In one, eleven 
anxious sinners presented themselves for prayer. At another, I 
baptized three who were added to the church. 

On Monday I attended a meeting three miles south of Oswego 
village. As it commenced, a violent shower arose, and I spoke 
from Matt. 24:27, " For as the lightning cometh out of the east, and 
shineth even unto the west, so shall also the coming of the Son of man 
be." The Spirit moved on the people, and the frequent flashes of 
lightning illustrated the solemn subject. In the three days following, 
I preached in Victory and Cato, — proceeded to Weedsport, and was 
affectionately received by brother Joseph Finck. He had been ed- 
ucated for a lawyer, and now, with his wife and a daughter, was a 
member of the church in Cato. Though they lived at a distance 
from their brethren, they appeared to be true Christians, — were 
strict in their attendance on family prayer, morning and evening. 
Every child, servant, and visitant, was required to attend the exer- 
cises. A part of the family, with myself, was about to go to an 
evening meeting ; but lest some should retire before our return, or 
be too weary to be profited, they were called together for family 
devotion. O, that every Christian would keep such order, and 
honor the family altar. If all w r ere thus faithful, what good would 
result to the rising generation ! How many might be converted, 
that for want thereof, will probably die in their sins, and sink to ev- 
erlasting ruin ! 

Sabbath, I preached in Spafford, and many were much affected. 
A young man said, that during a discourse in my last visit, convic- 
tion touched his heart, and he resolved to seek the Lord till he 
should find salvation. He related his experience for baptism, and 
was received by the church. In the afternoon, I preached with 
the second church in Spafford, and baptized the young man. On 
Monday I went to Conquest, and attended a meeting of business to 
settle a difficulty in the church of Cato and Conquest, occasioned by 
an impostor, whom they had received without letters of commen- 
dation, judging from his own testimony, and his appearance, that 
he was a good man. The result of this meeting was, that the 
church generally became convinced he was a deceiver, and agreed 
to hold no fellowship with him. But, four members w r ere dissatis- 
fied with this decision, and withdrew from the church — took part 
with the impostor for a few months, when he got drunk, and con- 



DAVID MARKS. 213 

ducted so wickedly that he was put into the state's prison. Then, 
I understood, they gave him up, and concluded that he was a bad 
man. This is one instance, among several within my knowledge, 
in which churches have suffered, and the cause has been brought 
into contempt, by the reception of a stranger without suitable let- 
ters of commendation. Some good people have thought them to 
be unnecessary, and have supposed that they possessed a spirit of 
discernment, which enabled them to know a man's heart by Ins 
own testimony and appearance. By referring, however, to Acts 
18:27, and 2 Cor. 3:1, it is evident, that letters of commendation 
were in use among the Apostles and primitive Christians : — and it 
hardly seems possible, that any Christian, after reflection, can sup- 
pose himself to be so much more spiritual in discernment than the 
primitive Christians, that he may safely dispense with the use of 
' letters of commendation.' 

After preaching once in Conquest, I went to Tyre, formerly a 
part of Junius, and found my father very sick. He could speak 
with difficulty, and was in constant expectation of death. I stopped 
a day, and then appointments called me to leave. I had some 
queries respecting duty ; but recollecting our Lord's' reply to one, 
who said, " Suffer me first to go and bury my father," I concluded 
it was duty to fulfill my engagements. With a sorrowful heart, I 
took leave of my father, and on Friday, May 1, arrived at Canan- 
daigua. On the Sabbath, the Lord accompanied his word with 
power to the hearts of many, and we enjoyed a pleasant season in 
attending to baptism. 



214 MEMOIRS OF 

CHAPTER XXI. 

My Tlvird and Fourth Journics to the District of London, Upper 
Canada, and other particulars till November, 1829. 

Wednesday, May 18, 1820, I started to go to Upper Canada, 

appointments having been previously given; and during the week, 
I attended two meetings in Greece, one in Clarkson, and one in 
Parma. In Greece, a few came forward for prayer. Sabbath, 

May 17, I preached in Parma On the atonement. Afterwards this 
sermon was publicly Opposed by some advocates of a particular 
atonement. A considerable number of converts were present, and 
we enjoyed a good season in communion. A revival had lately re- 
joiced many in this vicinity, and Elder Hannibal had baptised 
twenty. In the evening, I preached to a crowded assembly in 
Clarkson, and enjoyed freedom. The Lord had poured out his 
Spirit in this place also, and seven had lately been added to the 
church. On Tuesday, 1 spoke two hours with freedom, to a crowd- 
ed assembly on the town line of Hatavia and Elba* Many were 
under serious impressions, and about twenty came forward for 
prayer. Six years had passed since I labored in this place; and 
now my heart again rejoiced, to find that another revival had com- 
menced, and four persons had already been converted. Among 
these was Esq. Foster, son of Judge Foster, lately deceased. lie 
appeared to be like a little child. Thus, pure religion makes all 
its subjects innocent as children, and affectionate like brethren. 
Infidels have nothing in their system that can do this. 

1 next preached twice in lvoyalton, and spoke to an attentive as- 
sembly in the court house at Lockport. On Friday, being wry 
desirous to attend the Bethany quarterly meeting at Attica, I con- 
cluded to return fifty miles, though it would oblige me to travel 
with much speed to reach my next appointment, in Canada. The 
reports from the churches were very refreshing. On the Sabbath, 
about eight, hundred people were present at an early hour. An in- 
teresting discourse was preached by Elder Brown. I then felt it 

duty to address the people. The Lord tilled me with his Spirit, all 

glory be to his name! for without his grace, all preaching is but as 
"sounding brass or a tinkling cymbal." The meeting closed with 
g^eat solemnity, and several were apparently much profited by the 

services. 

In the evening, i rode eighteen miles to brother Barker's in Ba- 
tavia ; and finding the family mostly absent at a meeting, I retired 
to rest at 1 1 o'clock. At two I arose, and found that the family 
returned from meeting only an hour before; and that since I 



DAVID MARKS. 21 5 

preached in the place five days previous, it was believed six or sev- 
en had been converted. Now, we spoke of the loving kindness of 
the Lord and were very happy. Between three and four o'clock, 
I went on my way to Canada , and, though the weather was ex- 
tremely warm, I reached my appointment in Southwold on Thurs- 
day at six o'clock, having travelled two hundred and fourteen 
miles in four days. Friday, I held a meeting with brother Straight 
in another part of Southwold. In this vicinity, the state of religion 
was quite low ; yet it pleased the " good Shepherd" to manifest 
himself to his flock at this time, and one came forward for prayer. 
We spent the Sabbath in Dunwich, and each gave a discourse, 
with considerable freedom, to a large assembly. Here also there 
was a lack of engagedness, and many seemed to have been chilled, 
as by the north wind. Yet I believe the brethren generally were 
determined to strive for heaven. 

On Wednesday, three brethren accompanied me twelve miles on 
horseback in a rough' road, to a Scotch settlement. Here we met 
a considerable assembly, composed mostly of emigrants from Scot- 
land. They spoke the Gaelic language, and usually heard preach- 
ing in that tongue every Sabbath. The Lord gave me liberty, 
and, though they understood English very poorly, they appeared 
serious, and requested us to hold another meeting. Thursday, I 
spoke in Southwold from Rev. 2:1. We had a solemn, confessing 
time. Many were revived, spoke of their unfaithfulness, and of 
their duty, in a very feeling manner. At times there was such 
weeping in the assembly, that it seemed enough to touch the hard- 
est heart. One was awakened, and requested prayers. 

On Saturday, I attended the monthly meeting of the church in 
Dunwich. Some of the brethren, I understood, were at home, en- 
gaged in worldly cares ; others were at the raising of a building, 
&c, so that our number was small ; still we enjoyed a comfortable 
waiting on the Lord. I endeavored to urge upon those present, 
the impropriety of brethren's absenting themselves from monthly 
meeting on such occasions ; and remarked, if worldlings, or oth- 
ers, wished to invite the assistance of their Christian neighbors, 
they might choose another day, rather than the one set apart by 
the church for a sacred purpose. But, if worldlings will not re- 
gard the appointment of the church, then Christians should well 
know, in such cases, which call is binding, and obey the exhorta- 
tion of Paul, Heb. 10:25, " Not forsaking the assembling of our- 
selves together." Were it not that Christians meet for worship, 
church visibility, if not Christianity itself, would soon become ex- 
tinct in the earth ; and this probably would be the consequence, 
should every Christian neglect the meetings of the church. Yet 
strange it is, that there are some professed Christians, who think 



216 MEMOIRS Off 

themselves excusable in neglecting the appointments of the church. 
I remarked, that I thought such members as neglected meetings 
that are essential to church visibility, and attended to worldly con- 
cerns on the day of their appointment, as much violate their obli- 
gation as Christians, and as church members, as they would by 
profaning the Sabbath. A church consists of individuals, and, to 
be as " a city set on a kill" its members must attend worship, and 
let their light shine. It is, however, but just to remark, that this 
case was an exception to the general faithfulness of the brethren 
in Canada ; for I have found no people that take more pains to at- 
tend their meetings. 

Sabbath, June 7, 1 preached on the town line of Dunwich and 
Southwold, but my mind was in trials. Others, however, appeared 
to be happy. In the after part of the day, the Lord poured heav- 
enly consolation into my soul, and opened my mouth to praise him. 
On Tuesday, I was greatly depressed with a sense of my unwor- 
thiness and little spirituality. O, why this dull and stupid state ? 
Why so little power in my preaching ? and why are my labors at- 
tended with so little success ? O Lord, revive thy work in my 
soul. At five o'clock in the afternoon, I spoke from 1 Corinthians 
1:25, " Because the foolishness of God is iviser than men" &c. It 
pleased the Lord to open to my mind the excellencies of the gospel, 
and refresh me with the streams that " make glad the city of 
God." 

On Wednesday, brother Straight and myself started for Oxford, 
to attend the annual conference of the Free Communion Baptists 
in this province, and held a meeting in the east part of Westmins- 
ter. We understood that in this neighborhood, though thickly set- 
tled, there was scarcely a professor of Christianity. While speak- 
ing to the few that attended, I was so affected with a sense of their 
situation, that I gave vent to my feelings by many tears. 

Friday, June 12, 1829, the conference opened at 10 o'clock, A. 
M., at the house of Dea. Burtch. Being requested to preach, I 
spoke from 1 Pet. 2:5. The Lord favored me with one of my 
best seasons, and comforted the hearts of many. Our yearly meet- 
ing had appointed brother Straight and myself to attend this con- 
ference to open a correspondence, and, if convenient, to effect a un- 
ion with this people. They received us affectionately, and advised 
their churches to appoint messengers to meet in conference with 
us in two weeks. On Saturday morning a sermon was preached, 
and the remainder of the day was occupied by the brethren. On 
Sabbath forenoon, I spoke of the fulness there is in Christ for lost 
and perishing sinners, from Matt. 18:11, "For the Son of man is 
come to save that which was lost." In the afternoon, brother 
Straight preached from 1 Thess. 4:16, 17, 18, "For the Lord him- 



DAVID MARKS. 217 

self shall descend from heaven ivith a shout" &c. Many were 
comforted. The awakening power of God reached the hearts of 
sinners, and several left the assembly under serious impressions. 
We then united in communion, and had a very solemn season. 

On Monday I rode forty miles to London, and was kindly re- 
ceived by brother Huckins and family. Next morning a messen- 
ger came in haste, and told us that sister Sophronia, wife of Dea. 
Pierce, was thought to be dying. We hastened, and on coming 
near the house, heard death-like groans. She was in great dis- 
tress : soon, however, her struggles abated ; she gave me her hand 
and called me by name, saying, " The Lord is good to me." I 
had often seen her when here a year before, and many times had 
heard her sing with joy in the meetings at London. But now the 
features of death marked her countenance. She said she thought 
her time was short, and asked me to pray ; after which I repeated 
the following lines of Dr. Watts : 

* l Death may dissolve my body now, 
And bear my spirit home," &c. 

She said, " Amen, and desired the brethren that were present to 
sing. They began to sing, 

li I know that my Redeemer lives — 
What comfort this sweet sentence gives I 
He lives, he lives, who once was dead, 
He lives my everlasting Head." 

Soon she joined her hollow voice, and though her breath was short, 
and her frame trembled as though she was sinking in death, yet 
she kept the tune, and sung the hymn through with ecstacies of 
joy. Never did such glory adorn an earthly palace, as now seem- 
ed to shine on the bed of death. All were in tears except the dy- 
ing saint. O, that every infidel could have witnessed this scene, 
I retired for a moment, lest I should be overcome by its touching 
sublimity. Soon afterwards, she sung the following lines with 
great animation : 

' O Christians, are you ready now 

To cross the narrow flood ! 
On Canaan's happy shore, behold 

And see a smiling God. 

To see a pilgrim as he dies, 

With glory in his view; 
To heaven he lifts his longing eyes, 

And bids the world adieu ! 

While friends stand weeping all around, 

And loth to let him go, 
He shouts with his expiring breath, 

And leaves them all below.' 

When she had finished, she clapped her hands and shouted for joy. 
Language cannot describe the touching glory of this scene ; but 
19 



218 MEMOIRS OF 

the holy serenity and heavenly rapture that were then witnessed 
amid the struggles of .dying nature, were too deeply engraven on 
the minds of the spectator to be easily forgotten. Her husband sat 
by her and wept bitterly. She entreated him to forbear, and ex- 
horted him to be reconciled, saying, " I shall soon get through ; 
life is short, and you will follow me in a little time." 

Immediately after this, one of her brothers arrived, took her 
hand, and asked if she knew him. She said, " Yes, and I think I 
shall leave you soon." Then she began to grow cold, her breath 
grew short, her pulse i faint and few' — she gasped — and all was 
still. The friends began putting her in a position for lay- 
in «• out ; but, to the astonishment of all, she opened her eyes, 
groaned, and said, " Lord, how long ?" In about ten minutes, 
she again appeared to be breathing her last — again revived, and 
wished to hear singing. Thus she continued through the day, 
much distressed for want of breath, occasionally growing cold, and 
apparently sinking in death, and then again reviving. 

At her earnest request, a meeting had been appointed at the 
house at 5 o'clock, P. M. ; but, as she fell into a sleep, the assem- 
bly repaired to an adjacent grove. The interview was impressive. 
In the evening she sung with great animation. Many spectators 
were deeply affected, and holy manna seemed to fall upon us like 
the dew from heaven. A friend said to her, " Singing wearies 
you ; you would do better to forbear, till you receive new lungs 
and a new voice." She replied, " I cannot wear out in a better 
way." She now grew weak — her pulse ceased — her limbs became 
motionless and entirely cold, and her breath short and faint. The 
body also became cold, and some parts turned purple and spotted. 
She continued in this state about six hours, and then, to the aston- 
ishment of all, the body regained its heat, the pulse beat, and signs 
of life increased. I returned with brother Huckins, and early next 
morning, a messenger again called us to go and see her die. We 
found her in great agony of body, but composed and happy in 
mind. She desired prayer ; after which, the brethren began to 
sing. She attempted to join, moved her lips, but could only occa- 
sionally utter a sound. She continued through the day in a very 
happy state of mind, and in the afternoon sung with great anima- 
tion, 

( O, sisters, will you meet me,' &c. 

In the evening I read a chapter, and several that were present, 
sung her favorite hymn, 

* I know that my Redeemer lives,' &c. 

She said, " I can't keep from singing," and sung with them through 
the whole hymn. At the close, she clapped her hands, and ex- 



DAVID MARKS. 219 

claimed, " Glory to God, glory, glory," &c. Her joy appeared in- 
expressible, and a cloud of glory seemed to overshadow us. She 
desired us to pray, and, though in great distress, she said, " I am 
well." 

Thus she continued through the week, and on Sabbath, June 23, 
I addressed a large assembly, seated under a temporary bower in 
sight of the dying saint. After sermon, a young lady, in an affect- 
ing manner, confessed her sins and resolution to " turn and live" 
Next, a man of gray hairs arose, and apparently with much peni- 
tence, expressed his fears, that, by his sins, he was lost for ever. 
Then, an interesting youth, lately from Lower Canada, confessed 
with much emotion, that he was a lost sinner, and earnestly re- 
quested the prayers of Christians. Though nearly the whole 
church was present, I think every member spoke of the goodness 
of God, and we enjoyed a very refreshing season. On Wednes- 
day, June 24, sister Pierce still remained in the same happy frame, 
and waiting every hour in constant expectation of her change. 
But, to the surprise of all, she continued three weeks longer — and 
then fell asleep. 

On this day I started for New York in company with brother 
Straight and his wife, and on Thursday evening preached in Ox- 
ford. On Friday, Saturday, and Sabbath, we attended the confer- 
ence with the messengers of the Free Communion Baptist church- 
es. There were six messengers from the Free-will Baptist con- 
nexion, viz., four from the churches in Canada, brother S. and my- 
self ; and fourteen from the Free Communion Baptist connexion. 
After a full investigation of our sentiments and practice, several 
resolves* were passed with unanimity. These were presented to the 
Holland Purchase yearly meeting at the term in August following, 
and were approved unanimously. 

Meetings of worship on Saturday and Sabbath were interest- 
ing, and it pleased the Lord to bless the word to the awakening of 
some. Sabbath evening, I preached at the house of Dea. Burtch, 
and many were deeply impressed. After meeting, one, in great 
distress, prayed for mercy a considerable time. Soon afterwards 

* These resolves were as follows : " First, that we find only one difference in theory 
between the two denominations, namely, whereas the Free-will Baptists maintain that 
a saint, in this state of probation, may lose that grace and that character which consti- 
tute him such, and thus finally perish ; ihe Free Communion Baptists generally main- 
tain the reverse. Secondly, we find but one difference in practice, namely, that the Free 
Communion Baptists have a few "written articles of faith," abstract from the Scrip- 
tures, while the Free-will Baptists acknowledge no standard but the Bible. Thirdly, 
agreed, that we do not think these differences to be of sufficient importance to warrant 
propriety in our maintaining separate visibility. Fourthly, agreed, that we hold a 
friendly correspondence with each other — "follow after the things which make for 
peace" — baptize — break bread, and ordain with each otheras occasion may require ; also 
that we assist each other in church labors, &c, with the same freedom, as though we 
were but one denomination." 



220 MEMOIRS OF 

he found peace in believing. We attended a meeting in Blenheim 
the day following, and on Wednesday met about six hundred peo- 
ple in a beautiful pine grove at St. Catharines. A stand for the 
speaker, and seats for the people, had been prepared. I preached 
with some freedom, and brother Straight followed me. 

On Wednesday, July 2, we left the province, and in two days 
rode eighty miles to Greece, where, according to a previous en- 
gagement, we attended a two-days' meeting on Saturday and Sab- 
bath, July 4 and 5. The assembly was large, the power of the 
Lord was present, and one was hopefully converted. Monday I 
preached near lake Ontario, and baptized four. During the week 
following, I held ten meetings in Ogden, Byron, Elba, Batavia, At- 
tica, Middlebury, and Warsaw. In the latter my soul was filled 
with great mourning and pity for sinners. July 16, I attended 
meetings in Leicester and Moscow. The meeting in the latter 
place was a precious time. The Lord had lately visited this vicin- 
ity in mercy, and forty persons had professed to have passed from 
death unto life. On Friday I preached in Geneseo, and spent the 
greater part of the next day mourning on account of my un worthi- 
ness, and praying the Lord to revive his work in my soul. 

Sabbath, July 19, I spoke to a solemn congregation in Conesus. 
It was a time of much seriousness among the people, and one had 
lately experienced a change of heart. A sudden death that had 
happened a few days before, had been instrumental of exciting- 
much seriousness in this vicinity. The circumstances, as related 
to me, were as follows. A young woman, who was teaching 
school in the neighborhood, returned from worship on a Sabbath 
afternoon. A shower soon after arose. She was seated near the 
door, beside a young man, to whom she was engaged in marriage. 
As the thunder increased, the young man arose, and remarked that 
he thought it unsafe to sit in the door. The young woman replied 
with a smile, " I will change places with you, for I am the last one 
to be afraid of lightning." She had scarcely taken her seat, when 
an arrow of lightning passed through the roof of the house, through 
the chamber floor, and struck them. They both fell, and likewise 
every person that was standing in the house, except a lad about 
twelve years old. He passed over their bodies, supposing the 
whole family to be dead, and carried the tidings to a neighboring 
house. Assistance was immediately afforded, and all soon recov- 
ered, except the young woman that feared not the lightning. On 
her the message of wrath was executed, and she was now in eter- 
nity. The lightning melted a knife in the pocket of the young 
man, rent his pantaloons, and tore his boots from his feet ; yet he 
received no material injury. Thus was one " taken and the oth- 
er left? 



DAVID MARKS. 221 

Elder Josiali Fowler who resided in this place, told me that he 
had often conversed with this young woman, and exhorted her to 
repentance. She would freely confess her need of an interest in 
Christ ; yet she made vain excuses, said she was young — had time 
enough yet, and she hoped that she should repent before death. 
But how was she mistaken ! And, alas ! thousands of others are 
walking in the same way, who will neither see nor feel their dan- 
ger, till they " stumble on the dark mountains." O that men would 
take warning. 

Elder Fowler had but lately taken a residence in this place, and, 
though in consequence of renouncing his allegiance to Free Ma- 
sonry, as before stated, a storm of persecution had fallen upon him ; 
yet the Lord stood at his right hand, and renewed the blessings 
that formerly crowned his labors. In Sparta, an adjacent town, 
his preaching had been instrumental of awakening many who had 
already been converted. Since the commencement of the revival 
in that place, he had baptized a number, and gathered a church of 
sixteen members. Several of the converts attended my meeting 
at Conesus, and gave animating exhortations. One of them, a lad 
apparently about thirteen years of age, affectionately entreated his 
fellow youth to come to the Savior, saying, " The sun is not more 
full of light, nor the ocean more full of water, than Christ is of 
grace for perishing sinners/' 

For the four weeks ensuing, I held meetings in Penfiekl, Onta- 
rio, Reading, and Cananclaigua, and also attended the Benton quar- 
terly meeting at Catlin. Wednesday, Aug. 19, I left Canandai- 
gua, to attend the yearly meeting, and make another visit to Up- 
per Canada. During the journey of this week, I preached in 
Greece, Clarkson, and Byron ; and at the latter place baptized a 
young couple that had been lately married, and lately espoused to 
Christ. On the Sabbath I spoke to a crowded assembly on the 
line of Bat a via and Elba, on the subject of our Lord's ' great com- 
mission.' I next held meetings in the south part of Batavia, in 
Bethany, and Orangeville. The glory of the Lord appeared in the 
latter assembly, to the joy of saints and conviction of sinners. A 
small church had lately been gathered in this place, through the in- 
strumentality of Elder J. Miner, with whom I had enjoyed many 
pleasant hours in Green Creek, Ohio. On Wednesday I spoke to 
a very solemn assembly in Sheldon. During the sermon, Elders 
Fowler, Bignall, Straight, and some other brethren, came into the 
meeting, and we had a pleasant interview ; for as "iron sharpen- 
eth iron, so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend." 
These brethren were on their way to yearly meeting, and the next 
day we proceeded in company. 
19* 



222 MEMoms of 

On Friday, August 28, 1829, the yearly meeting commenced in 
Eden, and continued four days. The exercises in the meetings of 
worship were very interesting. Many were refreshed, and several 
backsliders came forward for prayer. Elder James Hams, from 
Upper Canada, Elders Cheney and Walker from Ohio, and Elder 
Newbold, from Pennsylvania, attended. The Wayne quarterly 
meeting in Ohio made application to unite with the yearly meet- 
ing. A council was appointed to examine into their standing, and 
if they thought advisable, to receive them into the connexion. 
This was done. The Wayne quarterly meeting contained eight 
churches, five elders, one unordained preacher, and one hundred 
and forty-eight members.* 

* Free-will Baptists commenced their existence, as a denomination, in N. England, at 
a period when many entered the ministry to gain a livelihood, and when sometimes the 
last cow of a poor man was sold to pay the minister's tax. This state of things they 
viewed with utter abhorrence ; and although in their early rise they adopted the plan 
of supplying the wants of the minister and the poor of the church, from a church stock r 
raised by a tax on the members proportioned to their property, this system was not 
adopted by the churches that were subsequently organized. Another and strange rule, 
to give to ministers when they felt an impression to do so, prevailed in some portions of 
the denomination. Great evils of course necessarily followed. At this session of the 
1LP. yearly meeting. Mr. Murks was appointed to write a circular to the quarterly meet- 
ings on the subject of the support of the ministry, and lay before them a regular system 
for this specific object. The following brief extract from this circular will show his 
views on this point. — Ed. 

Dear Brethren: — If, in the apostolic age, the suffering of the Hebrew widows called 
the attention of the primitive church at Jerusalem, and engaged the apostles of the 
Lord Jesus to devise means for their relief, [Acts 6,] should not the neglect of the daily 
ministration to the ministers of the sanctuary, call our attention ? Was the necessity of 
those widows more worthy the notice of the apostles, than the necessity of our minis- 
ters is of our notice ? Did it excite the attention of the apostles, and obtain a record on 
the pages of inspiration, that the widows' lack excited the murmurings of the Grecians, 
and is it nothing to us that the lack of ministers has excited the murmurings of spectators 
more numerous than the Grecians ? When necessity pressed the ancient widows, did 
the apostles say as we have, "Leave it to every one to give when and as he pleases, 
without any to oversee except, as God shall put it into their hearts ?" No. They had 
already effectually proved the insufficiency of this method, and called the whole multi- 
tude of disciples unto them, and appointed seven to attend upon this business. 

Our ministers are compelled to neglect the ?vIacedonian cries among the churches, to 
turn from the requests of broken-hearted penitents, and to leave revivals, to attend to 
their temporal affairs, and when these are half adjusted they return to the field. But O, 
the change ! The especial season for doing good is past ; converts have joined other de- 
nominations, and some for want of instruction and care have sunk under trials, perhaps 
to rise not again ! Our churches are small, and several of them are losing ground, and 
until they can have more preaching, circumstances are likely to be no more favorable. 
But until we can agree upon a better method of supporting ministers than we have yet 
practiced, our ministers must dig upon their farms, and our churches be destitute. Are 
these things nothing to us ? Shall we be tenacious, divided, and agreed upon nothing ef- 
fectual ? Shall the covetous man, whose sin is idolatry, pass undetected among us? — 
Some will say, my alms I will give in secret before God, but I cannot submit Ito rules 
for giving regularly. Alms are one thing, and paying an honest debt is another. Must 
those who are called to preach, spend all they have before remittances are made to 
them, and then become beggars, and be treated as town paupers ? What advantage has 
disorder, irregularity, or confusion ? Have they enabled us to support our ministers so 
that they could devote themselves to the work ? God is a God of order. All his works 
are in order. The sun, moon, and planets, all rise and set with regularity. The day, 
the night, the seasons, and even all nature's laws move in regular and invariable order. 
Men only are in confusion. Dear brethren, what have we gained by the absence of or- 
der and regularity in the support of our ministry ? * * * * Having now effectually 
tried and found the insufficiency of no regular method for sustaining those who labor in 
the vineyard, is it not time for us to agree upon some system which, by the blessing of 
God, will obviate the difficulty. 

[A plan was then submitted for carrying out this object.— Ed.] 



DAVID MARKS. 223 

On Monday I attended a solemn meeting with Elder Hams, in 
Eden. Next morning we continued our journey to Upper Canada, 
and on the Thursday following arrived at Oxford. Here, a revi- 
val had been progressing since the annual conference at this place 
in June previous. I began to hold meetings, and when I witness- 
ed the grace of God in this work, my heart rejoiced, and I gladly 
pointed mourners to " the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin 
of the world." Several that had been converted, dated their awa- 
kening at the meetings held in my former visit. This was a com- 
fort to my heart ; but the glory belongeth to God. I continued 
several days in Oxford, and in Zorra, an adjacent town, and held 
meetings in different neighborhoods. The attention of the people 
appeared generally called to the things which belonged to their 
peace, and we enjoyed some interesting seasons. Sabbath, Sept. 
20. I preached twice, and baptized three in Oxford. I believe the 
Holy Spirit seriously impressed the minds of several, particularly 
at the time of baptism. 

Sabbath evening, Sept. 20, 1829, I entered into one of the most 
solemn and important engagements of life. It was a union in mar^ 
riage with Manila Turner, of Zorra, Upper Canada. 

[In compliance with the solicitations of several judicious friends, 
the following extracts are given from private letters in relation to the 
matter here alluded to. The first extract is taken from a letter to 
Miss Turner, the other from a letter to her parents. — Ed. 

u In no engagements of life are there more severe disappoint- 
ments than in matrimony. Caution is scarcely security against 
disappointment. ; It is not in man to direct his steps.' In the 
opportunity I had with you, I never thought that you would expect or 
wish my marriage to you would sacrifice my religious duties of la- 
boring in the vineyard of the Lord, as God's Spirit and Zion's need 
may require ; or that riches or honors should be any condition of 
our union. I consider that the duties of religion and those of a 
husband perfectly agree and never interfere. An unkind husband 
cannot be a Christian, or at least a good one. I would never give 
my hand to a woman, unless I thought, without exception, I could, 
and should, and would befriend her as myself in sickness, sorrow, 
poverty, and all the depths of human woes ; and further, unless I 
could overlook her imperfections and bear them as my own. Neith- 
er do I want the hand of one who is not at least firmly resolved 
to do the same. If, dear Marilla, you ever consent to become my 
partner in life, you will find me a man of like passions as other 
men ; and yet, you may assure yourself, that as a Christian I shall 
at least feel the obligation ' To love you even as Christ loved 
the church, and gave himself for it.' But to promise worldly rich- 
es, honors, or ease, I think is not my province ; for these are things 



224 MEMOIRS OF 

I have not only not promised myself, but rather contented myself 
with the following and some other Scriptures : ' It is enough that 
the servant be as his Lord.' ' After all these things do the Gen- 
tiles seek, and your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need 
of them.' ' No good thing will he withhold from them that walk 
uprightly.' " 

[To Mr. and Mrs. Turner. ~\ 

* * # u jf j mistake not, your principal objection to our 
union is my itinerant life ; no dwelling of my own, &c. &c. The 
objection is worthy of consideration, and a more definite reply than 
it has as yet received. Having been accustomed, where men gen- 
erally promise, only to encourage, where they encourage, to be si- 
lent, and thus avoid disappointing grievously ; and jealous that in 
such an hour, I might give expectations which would rather re- 
strict from duty's path, I think I made little reply. In all my 
hopes, I would calculate for the worst, so that if disappointed, it 
would be for the better. But to the objection. If, to remove this 
objection satisfactorily, I must abandon the gospel ministry as the 
great work of my life — it Cannot be removed. If, for a wife, I 
would abandon the cause of my God, I should be jealous of my 
own heart, and that the same depravity might lead me to abandon 
the wife of my youth, whom I could have no more reason to love 
than Him who with his life redeemed my soul."] 

Monday, Sept. 21, we bade the parental home adieu. To our 
parents, and to us all, this was a solemn parting. In the evening, 
I preached with freedom at Burford, and on Wednesday, at 
St. Catharines. At the latter meeting, I understood that several 
were seriously affected, among whom were two or three Roman 
Catholics. Next day we visited the monument erected on Qaeens- 
ton heights, to the memory of Gen. Brock, a British officer, who 
fell in battle near this spot during the late war. We ascended the 
spiral staircase to the height of one hundred and twenty feet. The 
prospect was beautiful and extensive. Yet when I considered this 
work, I was reminded of the saying of Solomon, " Vanity of vani- 
ties, all is vanity." O, how great a contrast between the reflec- 
tions occasioned on visiting the monument of an officer, and the 
tomb of a Christian ! At the former, we witness the solitude of 
glory that has faded away ; and at the latter, we hear, as it were, 
a voice, saying, " Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord." 

On Friday morning, while we were riding near Lockport, a 
black cloud arose, and a loud roar of thunder continued six or sev- 
en minutes without cessation. Man and beast were frightened, and 
all around appeared solemn like the judgment. But when the last 
trumpet shall be blown, and its roar be continued till all the dead 



DAVID MARKS. 225 

shall awake, and every one appear before God, alas ! what fear 
and trembling will then take hold on the wicked. In the afternoon 
we arrived in Royalton, and were received affectionately by our 
relatives. I held three or four meetings, and reached Canandai- 
gna Oct. 1st. On the Sabbath, I preached with the church ; and 
on Tuesday, in company with brother Straight, proceeded toward 
Spafford, where the General Conference was soon to meet. We 
held a meeting in Junius ; and while brother S. was exhorting sin- 
ners to repent, a Universalist threatened him with violence, if he 
did not stop preaching that the wicked should be damned. But he 
waxed bold and spoke with more power. Thus the Lord maketh 
" the wrath of man" to praise him. Thursday, I preached at a fu- 
neral on the island west of Montezuma, and also at Weedsport. 
Several were affected. On the day following we arrived at Spaf- 
ford, and met with many brethren, whose presence rejoiced my 
heart. 

Saturday, Oct. 10, 1829, the third session of the General Con- 
ference opened in this town, at 9 o'clock, A. M. Ten messengers 
were present from the New England states. Sabbath morning, at 
the hour of nine, the house was filled, and at the opening of the 
meeting, it seemed as though we were all "by one Spirit baptized 
into one body." Eld. S. Curtis, a young man from Maine, preach- 
ed from John 4:13,14, "Whosoever drinketh," &c. The Holy 
Spirit made considerable impression on the assembly. After a 
short intermission, Elder _N« Brown preached from 2 Pet. 1:3, 4, 
"According as his divine power," &c. The solemnity in the as- 
sembly continued to increase, and Elder E. Place next arose, and 
repeated Jer. 12:5, "If thou hast run with the footmen, and they 
have wearied thee, then how canst thou contend with horses ? and 
if in the land of peace, wherein thou trustedst, they wearied thee, 
then how wilt thou do in the swelling of Jordan?" He said, the 
Lord had sent him from New Hampshire to this meeting, and giv- 
en him a witness that he should here see souls converted. This 
saying made me tremble, for fear he had spoken presumptuously ; 
for I knew the state of the church, and of the people in this place ; 
and it was such that it seemed impossible sinners should be con- 
verted. But when he began to describe the " swelling of Jordan" 
his soul was led into the sanctuary of God — he saw the end of the 
wicked. The place became awful, and the scene surpassed de- 
scription. Every eye was fixed on the speaker, till unnumbered 
faces were bathed in tears, and many frames convulsed, while 
touching groans burst from sinners' hearts, " and all around seemed 
like the judgment." My feelings were so powerfully affected, that 
I queried whether I should lose my breath or live through the 
scene. Many sinners were awakened — wept for their transgress- 



226 MEMOIRS OF 

ions, and we now expected to see souls converted. On Monday, 
the meeting of business detained me from the meetings of worship 
till the Conference adjourned in the evening. On entering the 
meeting, I found that many were on their knees praying earnestly. 
They continued wrestling with the Lord, till five were brought to 
rejoice. The meeting closed at two o'clock in the morning. Next 
day, worship was attended ; and in the evening more than thirty 
came forward for prayer. The exercises continued till midnight, 
and two or three professed to find peace in believing. On Wed- 
nesday two sermons were preached, and the power of God attend- 
ed them. One of the converts, a young woman, was so filled with 
the Spirit of the Lord, that her strength failed, and she remained 
nearly motionless through the meeting. One of her brothers was 
angry and took her away. In the evening the Conference closed. 

The business of the Conference was conducted with great una- 
nimity ; and although every part of the connexion was here rep- 
resented by delegates — many subjects considered, and much busi- 
ness transacted, yet the greatest point of difference that appeared, 
was, "whether a private labor, according to Matt. 18:15, 16, 17, 
should be taken with an offending brother whose crime has been 
committed publicly, or whether he should be immediately called to 
an account by the church." A large majority of the Conference 
decided in favor of the latter position. 

On Thursday morning, the young man who took his sister from 
the meeting the day before, kneeled for prayer ; and in the even- 
ing meeting, the number of the anxious increased to nearly forty. 
We continued our stay in Spafford nearly a month, attended meet- 
ings day and night, and enjoyed many blessed seasons. The num- 
ber of converts increased to about forty, and I enjoyed the privi- 
lege of baptizing eleven. In this time I preached in several oth- 
er towns. In Sempronius a revival commenced, and a number 
were converted. In one meeting that I attended, some of the "ba- 
ser sort" raised an opposition — threw down candles — cast sticks in- 
to the assembly — threw a large ball of mud at me while I was 
speaking — cut harnesses, &c. 

On Sabbath, Nov. 22, 1829, I had the privilege of baptizing my 
companion. As some circumstances attending her conversion were 
rather remarkable, I have thought a short sketch of her religious 
experience introduced here, might not be altogether unacceptable 
to the reader, and I have hoped might be instrumental of good to 
some poor soul that may have fallen into a like situation. 

She was the eldest daughter of Capt. Daniel Turner, formerly 
of Arlington, Vt., now of Zorra, Upper Canada. Till the age of 
eighteen years, she resided mostly with her parents in Arlington, 
and attended school. She was taught to respect religion, and usu- 






DAVID MARKS. 227 

ally attended public worship with the Episcopalian church. After 
her parents removed to Canada, she spent nearly three years teach- 
ing school in Oxford. In March, 1829, a little before she was 
twenty-two years old, she was first brought seriously to feel her 
need of the Savior. It was deeply impressed on her mind, that if 
she did not immediately turn to God, she should be cast off forev- 
er. Then she resolved to seek the Lord, and sighed for her neg- 
lect of the Savior. Her sorrow increased till she felt constrained 
to abandon her usual studies, and devote her whole time to read- 
ing the Bible, to meditation, and prayer. In about two weeks, 
while reading a sermon on the sufferings of Christ, she thought she 
could and ivould believe in the Son of God ; — she thought she did 
believe, and her burden left her. For a day she rejoiced, and in- 
dulged the hope that God had forgiven her all. But the next day, 
while reading the Scripture, " We know that we have passed from 
death unto life, because we love the brethren," she thought her ev- 
idence was not clear, and that the change in her attachment to 
Christians was not such as they had experienced. So she resolv- 
ed to renew her supplications as a penitent, lost sinner. She has 
since related her exercises on this occasion, as follows : 

" Now, alas ! I could not feel a sense of my sin. I labored for 
it, but it could not be obtained. I tried to hope, but my spirit 
sunk, and I despaired. Every thing confirmed me in the belief, 
that there was no mercy for me. I regretted my existence — en- 
vied the idiot — and would have gladly exchanged places with the 
reptiles — or plunged into non-existence. My food became loath- 
some, my sleep departed, and often when I took a drink of water, 
I thought I should soon be with the rich man in hell, where I could 
not obtain even one drop. Whole nights were sometimes spent in 
prayer, without any relief — my flesh wasted away, and I drew near 
the grave. My friends looked on me and wept. I could not com- 
fort them, for I was comfortless myself. Then I said, my life is 
useless, and I am a cause of grief to all that are dear to me." 

Her parents, alarmed on account of her gloomy state, invited 
ministers of different denominations to converse with her, hoping it 
might be instrumental of her gaining some consolation. But all 
seemed to be in vain. Deep sorrow was depicted on her counte- 
nance, and she appeared extremely disconsolate. In conversation 
with one who visited her, she said, " I have not seen the magnitude 
of my sins in neglecting the Savior ; and now my heart is not sus- 
ceptible of penitence. I think there is no mercy for me; not be- 
cause God is a respecter of persons, or his grace insufficient, but 
because I have refused his mercy. I try to pray ; my lips speak, 
but my heart will not draw near to God. Every effort seems to 
be useless, and all my former joys are fled. Still, I know it is not 



228 MEMOIRS OF 

the love of the world that prevents me from coming to Christ ; for 
could I have a thousand worlds by turning my hand over, I am 
confident I should not do it ; yet if I could obtain an interest in 
Christ by passing through the pangs of death ten thousand times, 
I would joyfully submit to these terms. But, alas ! I believe there 
are but few days for me on earth ; and while I have them I am 
constantly reminded of their short duration. These reflections, at 
times, so affect me, that I tremble, and my strength fails." While 
making these statements, she wept profusely, and all her emotions 
seemed to exhibit a state of confirmed despair. 

Upon this account of her state, the following Scriptures were re- 
cited to her : " Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy la- 
den, and I will give you rest." " Look unto me and be ye saved, 
all the ends of the earth." " Thou shalt find him, if thou seek him 
with all thy heart and with all thy soul." " In the last day, that 
great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, 
let him come unto me, and drink." " Him that cometh to me I will 
in no wise cast out." " But," said she, " these promises cannot ap- 
ply to me. To come to God, we must have faith : l whatsoever is 
not of faith is sin.' " She was then exhorted to pray for faith. She 
replied, " I cannot pray acceptably ; to pray with lips only is mock- 
ery. Once I might have prayed — but now my heart will not feel 
—it cannot feel — and how can I come to a holy God ?" She 
was answered, " Come repenting." " I cannot repent," she replied, 
"genuine repentance is a deep sorrow for sin. True, I regret my 
neglect of Gt)d, and feel in some measure the miseries of sin. And 
the damned in hell may do this ; may feel as much, and more ; but 
what does this avail them ? surely, no more than it does me. I 
might have repented, if I would have improved my day ; but now 
I am only reminded that my probation is concluded, that after a 
few solitary days, I must lie down in eternal sorrow." ' But,' it 
was replied, l God is long-suffering — not willing that any should 
perish ;' and " his tender mercies are over all the works of 
his hands." She answered, " True, and this increases my guilt ; 
for I have rejected his long-suffering, and trodden upon his tender 
mercy. And I am now justly condemned, and the throne of God 
will be forever clear in my eternal damnation." All the Scripture 
promises suited to her case, and all endeavors to apply them, she 
would either evade by argument, or by saying, that she felt they 
could not apply to one in her situation. She said, " I have tried 
to hope, but it is vain — it is deeply impressed on my mind, that 
nothing remains for me, but to " go away into everlasting punish- 
ment.' Yet I cannot murmur against God. My feelings are 
changed ; I am a stranger to the former reflections of my mind ; 
indifferent to my former pursuits, and I loathe the gayety of the 



DAVID MARKS. 229 

world. The months I spent in useless needle-work, witness against 
me, and I am reminded that I have done worse than to waste them 
for nought. Had I spent that time seeking the Lord, I might now 
have been happy." 

It was remarked to her, that if she ever foimd peace, it would 
be in prayer ; that the Lord had answered the prayers of wicked 
men and of devils, Mark 5:12, 13 — 17; and, much more, would 
he answer the prayers of those who sorrow for their sins and for- 
sake them. Then it was proposed to her to kneel and pray three 
times a day for a year. She declined, saying it would be of no 
use. But after some reflection, concluding it could do no harm, 
she made the covenant. Ten days after this, s-he attended the con- 
ference of the Free-will and the Free Communion Baptists in Ox- 
ford ; and several friends spent a night in prayer with her — still 
she found no relief, and the next day her distress increased. She 
observed, " If so many prayers of the saints in my behalf, gain no 
access, the cause must be, that my doom is unalterably fixed." The 
state of her mind continued about the same for several months, as 
appears by the following extracts from her letters : 

July 30, 1829, she writes : — " Still it appears to me, the door of 
mercy is forever and justly closed against me ; for God has called, 
and I have refused ; he stretched out his arm, and I would not re- 
gard. And what am I, that I have dared to refuse obedi- 
ence, and to rebel against an almighty God, who had power 
any moment to sink me into an abyss of wo and misery ! But, 
instead of this deserved doom, his sparing mercies have followed 
me, and temporal blessings have been bestowed with a liberal hand. 
I review these mercies, and at times indulge the vain hope that 
they will lead me to love and place an unbounded confidence in 
their divine Author. But, the depravity of my heart ! The 
thought that happiness has forever fled my bosom, makes me at 
times almost indifferent to my fate. Yet I am in the hands of God, 
and with him all things are possible. My sister appears to be se- 
rious ; she arose in meeting two days since and expressed a deter- 
mination to seek the Lord. She is two years younger than my- 
self; and, did I possess millions of worlds, I would joyfully give 
them up, if I could by that means recall two years of my life. 
But, alas ! vain wish ! Why do I spend a single thought on that 
which cannot be, when soon I may have an eternity to reflect 
in!" 

Aug. 20, she writes: — "What infatuation, what fatal mad- 
ness has deceived me, and caused me to treat the mercies of Heav- 
en with such neglect and indifference ! What has the Lord not 
done for me, that would have been likely to inspire my soul with 
gratitude and love, and secure my obedience ? Often does my 
20 



230 MEMOIRS OF 

heart recur to the scenes of childhood, when I fondly pictured to 
myself and my heart glowed in contemplating what I then believ- 
ed to be the virtuous principles that would be engraven on my 
soul, and the usefulness that would mark my future life. But when 
I look back for these fruits of piety, what do I find in their stead ? 
I am led to exclaim, i wretched ingrate that I have been !' O the 
deceitfulness of sin! Justly may it call for the vengeance of a 
holy God. 

" I mentioned in my former communication, that my sister was 
serious. She has found comfort, and gone forward in the ordi- 
nance of baptism. I walked with her to the water, but could go no 
further. It appeared to me, that we should soon be separated for 
a long eternity ; — she to be a partaker of the glorious rest provid- 
ed for the children of God, while, alas ! I should have my portion 
with unbelievers. ' O that it were not forever P The certain 
conviction that this must be my fate, if I die in my present condi- 
tion, causes me to refer my hopeless case to Him, who alone can 
cleanse my soul from all its impurities. But I am sensible that my 
prayers want that quality, which alone can render them accepta- 
ble ; for when asking, it appears to me, I am requesting that which 
will never be granted ; that I am pleading Him to do more for me 
than He ever did for any one in my situation, or more than He has 
promised to do. This thought rests on my mind with such weight 
that all the arguments I can urge will in no manner affect it. 
Again, at times, when I reflect on His power, and that He is not 
willing any should perish, I think I may possibly experience 
his salvation. But no sooner do I recollect my situation, than this 
also, vanishes. Sometimes I say within myself, ' I am in His 
hands, and will wholly resign myself to Him ;' but I can no long- 
er do as I would. My soul is in possession of the powers of dark- 
ness, and it is an Almighty arm alone which can rescue me. The 
grave will soon be my bed ; and, were I prepared, I could this mo- 
ment greet death as a welcome friend. But while life shall be 
spared, I will strive to seek the Lord." 

During the summer the food she allowed herself to support na- 
ture was reduced to almost nothing, and her sleep, on an average, 
to about two hours in twenty-four. Her health declined till she 
was reduced to a mere skeleton, and apparently stood on the brink 
of the grave. Not a smile cheered her countenance ; much of her 
time was spent in weeping, and her friends mourned for her as for 
one that was dead. 

This was the situation of her mind, both at the commencement 
of our acquaintance, and at the time of our marriage. Yet, I be- 
lieved the Lord by his Holy Spirit had shown me that he de- 
signed this visitation of his stern justice to prepare her for his 



DAVID MARKS. 231 

service. In these circumstances, our engagement for life was at- 
tended with much solemnity and weeping. And I should have 
preferred still deeper mourning on this occasion, rather than to 
have entered into the marriage covenant with that inexcusable van- 
ity and trifling, which, too often, at such times, corrupt men, and of- 
fend God. After our marriage, she still continued in her despair- 
ing state, and passed much of her time in bitter weeping. My faith, 
that she would yet be brought to rejoice in the Lord, seemed to 
give her a little hope ; but, from her own feelings, she still judged 
her case to be hopeless ; and remarked, that she thought I should 
have to bear her afflictions but a few days, and then, with her, all 
would be lost. Our days passed in mourning, and much of our 
time was spent in prayer. 

On our arrival at Spafford to attend the General Conference, a 
preacher, who was my friend, on becoming acquainted with the 
gloomy state of my companion, said to me, " I am surprised that 
you have married a person in her state of mind — she cannot live 
long in this situation, and I think it probable her despair will end 
in insanity." I replied, ' I am aware that many spirits have gone 
out into the world, and that often man is deceived. Yet, I know, 
if God ever spoke by me, I shall yet see her happy in the Lord.' 
In the evening, on Monday, Elder Place begged a dismission from 
business, that he might go to the assembly of worship ; " For," said 
he, " I have a message from the Lord." Soon after entering the 
meeting, he addressed my companion, and said to her, " I have a 
message from God to you ;" — then told her, he knew in God 
there was mercy for her, exhorted her not to despair, and said, he 
knew the Lord never gave his children, in behalf of one whose case 
was hopeless, such a travail of soul as he felt for her. After speak- 
ing to her case about half an hour, he exhorted her to kneel in 
presence of the assembly and pray for mercy. She did — a ray of 
hope pierced her direful gloom. The chains which for seven 
long months had bound her mind, now gave way; and she began 
to believe that the Lord would grant her the joys of his salvation. 
The cries, " Lord, have mercy !" " God be merciful to me a sin- 
ner !" were now heard in every part of the assembly. About this 
time, the members of Conference adjourned their business and re- 
paired to the house of worship. I found my companion rejoicing 
in the work of the Lord, though she hardly dared to think she had 
found any comfort that would be permanent. But from the time 
of the Conference, her faith, hope, and joy gradually increased, till 
she gained victory over her desponding state of mind. 

On Sabbath, Nov. 22, she related her experience, and was re- 
ceived by the church at Canandaigua. After sermon, we retired 
to the shore of the lake, where she was baptized. For this oppor- 



232 MEMOIRS OF 

tunity, my joy was unspeakable, and I said in my heart, as did on e 
on another occasion : " My soul doth magnify the Lord — For he 
that is mighty hath done to me great things ; and holy is his name." 
She was now a help in my ministry and accompanied me in my 
travels. The furnace through which she had passed for seven 
months, appeared to have weaned her from the world, its pride, and 
its vanity ; and she seemed to have no object or desire, except to 
devote herself to God and his cause. If at any time, I expressed 
sorrow for the want of any convenience of life, she would remind 
me of the poverty our Savior endured, and say, " Is it not enough 
that the servant be as his Lord ?" or recite some other similar Scrip- 
ture, assuring me that she felt it a privilege, if the Lord called, to 
suffer for his sake. She dated her experience previous to her 
sinking in despair. This is one instance, among many that might be 
named, in which after souls have received the pardoning grace of God, 
they have, in consequence of yielding to doubts, waded through the 
waters of affliction ; for months have sighed in the deepest anguish, 
and trembled for fear they should rest on a false hope, while they 
would not knowingly sin for a world. Too often they are censur- 
ed, when they ought to be treated with tenderness and encouraged 
to persevere. They try to believe, and if there appears to be any 
hope, they tremble, and weep, and say, " It is not for me." I have 
observed that such persons rarely, if ever, are delivered suddenly* 
Their light and hope generally increase gradually. 



DAVID MARKS. 233 



CHAPTER XXII. 

Particulars of my Travels and Labors from November, 1829. to 
September, 1830. 

Monday, Nov. 23, we attended a meeting in the west part of 
Middlesex, and found a revival progressing among the Methodists. 
On a Sabbath previous, one of their preachers, as I was told, went 
down into the water with the converts, and baptized seventeen. 
We attended meetings in different neighborhoods in the town. In 
one, at Flint creek, twenty arose for prayer. A revival had just 
commenced under the labors of Elder Wire, and two had obtained 
a hope. I next preached in Italy, and the word was attended with 
the power of God. Here also five or six had lately found the Sa- 
vior ; and it was said that in an adjacent neighborhood all the 
young people had " turned to the Lord." 

After preaching in several other churches, I met the church in 
Canandaigua in monthly meeting, on Saturday, Dec. 4 : five came for- 
ward for prayer. On the Sabbath, we enjoyed a refreshing time. On 
Monday evening, I rejoiced to find the work of the Lord progressing 
in Conesus. Next day, I held two meetings in Sparta, where the 
Lord manifested his power. The revival that commenced under 
the labors of Elder Fowler, immediately after he renounced Free 
Masonry, still continued; and the church that he gathered in the 
spring, had now increased to the number of forty. Saturday and 
Sabbath, Dec. 10, and 11, we attended a two-days' meeting at Beth- 
any, in which saints were happy, and sinners were awakened. The 
Lord had lately poured out his Spirit in this place, and about thir- 
ty had found the Savior. 

The following week we attended meetings in Batavia, Byron, 
Clarkson, and Greece ; then returned to Canandaigua. The last 
of December, we visited a few churches of the Ontario quarterly 
meeting, and on " New Year's day," 1830, attended a session of 
said meeting at Galen. The week ensuing, I preached in differ- 
ent towns, and attended the Benton quarterly meeting, at Flint 
creek in Middlesex. Nearly sixty had been converted in this 
place since our last visit. A school teacher was one of the first. 
Several of his scholars, from the age of ten to fifteen, became seri- 
ous ; and some of them retired to a wood, at the time of intermis- 
sion, to pray for mercy — forgot their school till near its close, when 
they returned happy in the Lord. Nineteen of the children had 
professed to be converted ; and while I heard them tell what God 
had done for their souls, I rejoiced that the Savior had said, " Suf- 
20* 



234 MEMOIRS OF 

fer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not." This was 
also a day of good tidings from other churches. During the meet- 
ing on the Sabbath, a woman of about three score years was con- 
verted, and for the first time shouted the praises of Emmanuel. 

Jan. 16 and 17, we attended the second session of the Allegany 
quarterly meeting, held in Sparta. The revival in this town had 
spread into Springwater, Conhocton, and Dansville. Elder Fow- 
ler had lately baptized fourteen, and the number of the church 
had increased to fifty-five. During the meeting Hye souls were 
hopefully converted. This quarterly meeting was organized about 
three months before ; and, at this time, consisted of four churches, 
containing one hundred and forty-four members, three elders and 
two unordained preachers. The largest of these churches was in 
the town of Independence. It was gathered by a Free Commun- 
ion Baptist minister. He, with the church, I understood, renounc- 
ed their belief in the ' certainty of the perseverance of the saints/ 
and embraced the doctrine of the the ' necessity of their persever- 
ance.' They were now blessed with a revival. 

Jan. 22, 24, we attended the Bethany quarterly meeting, in the 
south part of Penfield. The reports from the churches were in- 
teresting, and some of the preachers came in the fullness of the 
blessing of the gospeL On the Sabbath, for want of room, meet- 
ings were held in two places. Elder Jenkins preached to one as- 
sembly in the forenoon, and to the other in the afternoon, with 
great power. Unusual solemnity rested on the people, and many 
were melted into tears. 

Monday morning, a young man who was teaching a dancing 
school, and a professed Universalist, begged some of the preach- 
ers to pray for him. He requested a prayer meeting to be ap- 
pointed in the evening on his account ; and though it was very 
stormy, a large house was crowded with people. Thirteen kneel- 
ed for prayer, and one or two were brought to praise the Lord. 
The next evening of my meeting, thirty came forward for prayer, 
and two were brought into liberty. Leaving Penfield, we return- 
ed to Cananclaigua, and held a few meetings in different towns. 

In the early part of February, we journeyed to Zorra, Upper 
Canada; and on the way held several meetings, which were re- 
freshing. But as the sleighing left us suddenly, after a very short 
stay with our relatives, we returned in haste ; and, on the 20th of 
February, arrived in Penfield. Since the quarterly meeting, many 
a proud sinner had been brought to bow at the feet of Jesus. The 
brethren had just returned from monthly meeting ; in which they 
said ninety-six spoke of the goodness of God, fifteen united with 
the church, and one soul was converted. The next day, I stood in 
a window of a large stone school-house, and spoke nearly two 



DAVID MA&KS. 235 

hours to about eight hundred people, half of whom stood without. 
After this I had the privilege of baptizing three : one was a little 
girl that experienced religion at the age of six. She had anxious- 
ly waited for this opportunity ; and when raised out of the water, 
exclaimed, " Glory to the Lord." In the evening Ave had a very 
happy meeting ; many converts spoke, sinners confessed, and a boy 
twelve years of age professed to find Jesus, and was so filled with 
joy, that he only cried, " Glory — I am happy — glory, glory," &c. 

After attending meetings in some other towns, we returned tp 
Canandaigua. Sabbath evening I preached in the asylum for the 
poor of Ontario county, and enjoyed the presence of the Lord. 
We understood the expense of this establishment was about eight 
thousand dollars ; and we were highly gratified on viewing the 
ample provisions for the comfort of the afflicted* At this time, the 
asylum contained nearly one hundred ; the greater part of whom 
were brought to this place through intemperance. They enjoy- 
ed many religious privileges. 

In the early part of March, we returned to Penfield, and found 
the revival still spreading with great power. Seventy, as we were 
informed, had already obtained a hope. Meetings had been attend- 
ed every evening, and nearly every day since the quarterly meet- 
ing. We attended an evening meeting with Eiders Hannibal and 
Straight. Many powerful exhortations were given, and several 
came forward for prayer. The next day, I preached with unusu- 
al liberty, and in the evening attended a conference meeting. A 
man who had lived in sin, and in Universalism, arose, apparently 
in the agonies of despair, and said, " I need not ask Christians to 
pray for me — there is no mercy that can reach my case." One of 
his daughters, who was a young convert, addressed him very af- 
fectionately, and earnestly entreated him to look to Jesus for help ; 
then turning to the assembly in a flood of tears, she said to the wick- 
ed, " behold the awful consequences of sin." About forty arose 
for prayer, and it was a time of great mourning. Almost every 
house in the vicinity had become a house of prayer, and the work 
was more glorious than any I had ever before witnessed. The 
dancing master and fiddler, with their pupils, were converted to 
God, and their ball-room was open for worship. 

We were told about this time, that a boy eight years of age was 
in a barn praying for mercy. As he arose, he looked on a horse 
that was named i Dick,' and with astonishment exclaimed, " Dick 
is praising God!" He was filled with wonder ; and as he ran to tell 
his parents, he passed the cattle, and, with increased surprise, cried 
out, " Why, the cattle are praising God !" Before he reached the 
house, he saw the geese, and seeming quite amazed, he exclaimed, 
" And the geese are praising God too !" When he came to his 



236 Memoirs otf 

parents, he said, with great animation, " Dick is praising God, and 
the cattle are praising God, and the geese are praising God." He 
scarcely had finished his story, when he cast his eyes on the cat, 
and with transport exclaimed, " Why, puss, you are' praising God 
too !" This simple exhibition of a change in the child, which he sup- 
posed to be in the things he saw, melted the hearts of his parents, and 
they confessed the work to be of God. This little child followed 
his Lord in baptism. At an evening meeting, I heard him give 
an exhortation that was extraordinary for one of his years. After 
attending another meeting in Penfield, in which former scenes were 
repeated, I preached in several other places ; and on Saturday, 
March 6, attended monthly meeting with the church in Canandai- 
gua. On the Sabbath, we had a refreshing season. 

Monday, March 8, we started with a wagon for Scriba, rode 
thirty miles in a tedious storm of snow, and arrived at Lyons 
late in the evening. Next day, we proceeded in a sleigh, and in the 
evening, called on a family of professed Christians. I desired 
something to eat. They told us they had nothing cooked, and they 
could not accommodate us ; so we rode about eighteen miles further, 
much of the distance on bare ground, and after midnight arrived 
at the house of brother K. in Scriba. Mrs. K. was not a profes- 
sor ; yet she arose with apparent gladness, and prepared us a meal. 
The occurrences of this evening, reminded me of two sayings of 
our Lord, and their application : " I was a hungered, and ye gave 
me no meat." — " I was a hungered, and ye gave me meat." Here 
I found an empty seat. The father of the family died a week be- 
fore. He was a member of the church, and ever when I saw him 
was much engaged in the service of the Lord. He once told me, 
he hoped and believed, that when his time was fulfilled, he should 
go to his home suddenly. I was informed that he took his dinner, 
apparently as well as usual, then suddenly fell from his chair. He 
was taken up immediately — but he was dead. < O Lord, may I 
also be ready.' I held six meetings in Scriba, and found the two 
churches in this town, and the one in New Haven, in a state of en- 
gagedness ; and, though destitute of an administrator, they appear- 
ed to maintain gospel order. On Monday, March 15, we left Scri- 
ba, and after a tedious journey, arrived at Canandaigua. 

During the week following, I journeyed one hundred and fifty 
miles, and suffered much from a tedious storm. Sabbath, March 
28, I preached twice to a small assembly in Geneva. Next day we 
attended a meeting in Fayette, and tarried at the house of Mr. 
Whitmer. Here we saw two or three of his sons, and others to 
the number of eight, who said they were witnesses of a certain 
book just published, called the " Golden Bible" or " Book of Mbr- 
mo?i" They affirmed, that an angel had showed them certain plates 



DAVID MARKS. 237 

of metal, having the appearance of gold, that were dug out of the 
ground by one Joseph Smith; that on these plates was writ- 
ten a history of the ten tribes of Israel which were lost, and reve- 
lations to different prophets that arose among them. They 
stated the writing could be read by no person, except by the said 
Smith ; and, that the Lord had inspired him to translate and pub- 
lish the book, — that none, but twelve chosen witnesses, had been 
allowed to see these plates, and that now they were " hid up unto 
the Lord," They further stated, that twelve apostles were to be 
appointed, who would soon confirm their mission by miracles — and, 
that if any one read their bible and did not believe, they would 
be given up and lost forever. These eight were in company with 
Smith and three others. A copy right was secured by Smith in 
his own name. The book contains about six hundred octavo pages 
of small print. Five thousand copies were published — and they 
said the angel told Smith to sell the book at a price which was one 
dollar and eight cents per copy more than the cost, that they 
" might have the temporal profit, as well as the spiritual." They 
urged me to purchase a copy, and finally offered me one for $1,25. 
" But," said I, " I understood you to say the angel told you to sell 
it for $1,75. They replied, " The angel said we might sell it for 
that sum, but did not say we should not sell it for any less." 

When I was in Ohio, I had quite a curiosity to know the origin 
of the numerous mounds and remains of ancient fortifications that 
abound in that section of the country ; but could not find that any- 
thing satisfactory was known on the subject. Having been told, 
that the ' Book of Mormon 9 gave a history of them and of their au- 
thors, some desire w r as created in my mind to read their story, but 
I could not, in good conscience, purchase a copy lest I should sup- 
port a deception ; so they lent me one, and I read two hundred and 
fifty pages ; but was greatly disappointed in the style and interest 
of the work. So far from approaching the sublimity of the in- 
spired writers, they would bear no comparison with the Apocry- 
pha, or the Alcoran. Indeed the style is so insipid, and the work 
so filled with manifest imposture, that I could feel no interest in a 
further perusal. It contained several extracts from the Scriptures ; 
and, with a little variation, Christ's sermon on the mount. From 
all the circumstances, I thought it probably had been written orig- 
inally by an infidel, to see how much he could impose on the cre- 
dulity of men, and to get money. Yet, I expected they would 
make converts ; for there are many people who are fond of new 
things ; and there is scarcely any system so absurd as to obtain no 
advocates. Shortly after this, I understood that one of the " wit- 
nesses" baptized Smith, and then Smith baptized others. If one 
believed the book he was considered a fit subject for baptism. 



238 MEMOIRS OF 

On reviewing this pretended revelation, I was forcibly struck 
with the contrast between the introduction of the gospel of Christ, 
and that of the ' Book of Mormon/ The former came down from 
heaven ; the latter is said to have been dug out of the earth. The 
gospel was first preached openly with power, in the sight of all 
men, and written afterwards ; the ' Book of Mormon' was first 
written, secretly, and out of sight of all men, except twelve, 
and preached afterwards. None of the works of Christ and the 
apostles were in secret, but open to the examination of all ; the or- 
igin of this book is hid in the dark. The gospel of Christ was 
confirmed by unnumbered miracles, wrought in the most public 
manner ; the ' Book of Mormon' is not confirmed by any miracles, 
but its authority rests on the testimony of twelve men whom we 
do not know. The gospel of Christ presented to its apostles no 
temporal gain, but the loss of all things ; the ' Book of Mormon' 
has a copy right secured, that its witnesses may " have the temporal 
profit" — so men cannot tell that this "profit" is not what induces 
them to bear such witness. The gospel is confirmed by a thous- 
and prophecies that preceded, and pointed to it, and are still dai- 
ly fulfilling ; but we know not that any prophecy pointed to the 
' Book of Mormon.' The Bible is a book of perfect harmony, and 
unrivalled sublimity ; the ' Book of Mormon' is full of absurdity, and 
too dull to charm the soul. 

In the early part of April I held a few meetings in towns east- 
ward, and attended a session of the Ontario quarterly meeting in 
Conquest. It appeared to be a time of mourning among the 
churches ; yet we enjoyed some good from the Lord. Monday, 
April 19, I preached in Macedon; signs of a revival appeared, 
and several animated exhortations were given. Next day, I 
preached in Perinton, near Penfield. Since our visit six weeks 
before, the glorious work had spread into adjacent towns, and it 
was now thought that one hundred and fifty had been converted. 
Eld. Parker, who had labored constantly in the revival, had baptized 
sixty, and more than seventy had been added to the church. The 
land of darkness had truly seen a great light, and the shadow of 
death had fled away. Leaving Penfield, we visited several towns 
west of Rochester. 

In the latter part of April, on our way to the Allegany quarter- 
ly meeting, we called at the house of Mr. Markham in Dansville, 
where, on the 4th of January previous, a shocking murder was 
committed. Mrs. Markham stated to us these particulars : — A 
w r ell dressed stranger, whose name was Millard, told a man named 
Smith, who was at work for Mr. Markham, to take a span of 
horses and carry him to Howard. Smith refused, and Millard be- 
gan to beat him. Smith returned the blows for a minute, then 



DAVID MARKS. 239 

took an axe for his defence, and ran into the house. Millard 
knocked him down with a club, then seized the axe, and with one 
blow chopped off his head ! Mrs. M. being alone with her chil- 
dren, fled through a back window. Millard split open the body of 
Smith — took up his head by the ear, and his tongue fell out — then 
he pursued Mrs. M., and when he had nearly overtaken her, sev- 
eral men came to her assistance, pursued Millard two hours, and 
took him. Then he exclaimed, " Lord, what have I done ! Is 
there a Mason here V One present replied that he was a Mason, 
but his crime was " too great" for mercy to be expected on that 
ground.* Mrs. M. was greatly affected while she related the cir- 
cumstances ! and it appeared that this scene had been instrumen- 
tal of her conversion to God. 

Friday, April 30, 1830, the Allegany quarterly meeting opened 
in Burns, and we enjoyed a heavenly season. A small church 
had been lately gathered in this town by Elder B. formerly a min- 
ister of the Calvinistic Baptists, who had lately united with the 
quarterly meeting.f On the Sabbath the assembly was large, and 
sermons were preached by brother Fowler and myself. In the 
latter part of the exercises, great solemnity, and a deep state of 
feeling pervaded the congregation, and several came forward for 
prayer. A few weeks afterwards, I understood that a number had 
been converted in this vicinity. On Monday I preached with great 
liberty in Dansville, and six or eight arose for prayer. I held 
meetings in Groveland and Conesus ; and on Friday, May 7, at- 
tended the Benton quarterly meeting at Canandaigua. The re- 
ports from the churches were more interesting than at any former 
meeting. The greater part of them were enjoying revivals ; and 
since the last quarterly meeting, their number of members had in- 
creased nearly one quarter. This was truly a day of good tidings ; 
gladness filled our hearts, and we did not " hold our peace." All 
glory to God and the Lamb. May the good work increase, till 
" the kingdoms of the world become the kingdom of our Lord and 

* A man that was present a few minutes after he was taken, told me that Millard 
appeared rational till two Masons whispered with him, and that then he affected 
to be insane. Millard was not hung. I understood the jury supposed him to have been 
deranged. Dr. D told me that the foreman of the jury was a royal arch Ma- 
son. * * * * 

f Elder B. was a Calvinistic Baptist for many years. I was informed that he organ- 
ized the first Baptist church in Rochester, N. Y. $ also, that he had gathered fifteen oth- 
er churches, and baptized about eight hundred in that denomination. Elder B. told me 
the following particulars concerning his change of sentiments. He asserted in a ser- 
mon, with much emphasis, that ;i All things whatsoever were for the glory of God." 
On the Sabbath after, seeing two small boys, engaged in play, he reproved them for vio- 
lating the Sabbath. One of them said, "Mr. B. is not this one of the '-all things' which 
you said last Sabbath was for the glory of God ?" This answer from the child, caused 
him to reflect-, and he queried, ' Do I preach a doctrine that strengthens the wicked ?*' 
Then, after a strict examination of the Scriptures, he embraced the doctrine of free 
grace, free-will, free communion, «fcc. &c. 



240 MEMOIRS OF 

his Christ," On the Sabbath, Elder Wire preached to the crowd- 
ed assembly with power. Many, interesting reports of revivals 
were then read, or given verbally. 

Monday morning, May 10, 1830, was to me a solemn time. My 
good friend, brother T. Beebe, with whom I had ever found a home 
from my first coming to Canandaigua, having sold his farm, re- 
moved this day to Hopewell, ten miles from this vicinity. His 
house had been to me like that of a father, and many and great 
had been the favors I had received. The church and the people 
generally in the vicinity, felt their loss on his removal ; for he and 
his companion had been a father and mother in Zion ; and from 
their house the needy had never been sent empty away. ' O may 
their kindness be rewarded, and they " find mercy of the Lord in 
that day." ' 

On this day, I received a deed of ten acres of land, for which 
the Lord has enabled me to pay a part ; and, if he open the way, 
I design to build a house thereon for my home. During the four 
days following I preached with freedom in Hopewell and Mace- 
don, and twice in Walworth. In Macedon, twelve came forward 
for prayer, and the prospect of a revival seemed to be increasing. 
In Walworth, three or four had been converted, and ten came for- 
ward for prayer. 

On Saturday we attended the monthly meeting of the church in 
Perinton and Penfield. Nearly one hundred spoke of the dealings 
of God with their souls, and six were received for baptism. The 
revival was still progressing. Elder Parker told me that ninety- 
six had been added to the church within three months ; and it was 
judged that the number of converts had increased to two hundred ; 
also, that among all the denominations in Penfield, it was believed 
that four hundred had been converted within six months. On the 
Sabbath, May 16, I preached to the church in North Penfield. 
Here also a revival was spreading, and brother H. Whitcher was 
laboring in the work. Nearly forty had professed to be converted. 
At 4 o'clock, P. M., we returned to the south part of the town, 
where it was thought one thousand people assembled in the early 
part of the day. They had listened to a sermon from Elder Par- 
ker, and witnessed the baptism of the six candidates ; and the 
greater part of them remained while about one hundred and twen- 
ty or thirty communicants came to the table of the Lord. When 
we arrived, the assembly were seated or standing on a green in the 
open air, and nearly all the communicants were engaged in wash- 
ing each other's feet. The day was pleasant, the earth was array- 
ed in beautiful green, and the blossoms ' sent forth a goodly smell.' 
We looked with pleasure on the scenery that surrounded us, heard 
the forest songsters praise their Creator ; but with rapturous de- 






DAVID MARKS. 241 

light we gazed on the redeemed of the Lord, and heard the con- 
verts sing with a melody that seemed to reach the heavens. Many 
wept, while they saw the gay youth of Penfield, like their divine 
Master, washing the saints' feet. As the scene closed, a respecta- 
ble physician and his wife, remarked to us with tears, that, though 
they had not believed in washing feet, it was attended with as much 
solemnity as the communion ; and, that when the converts came to 
this service, they almost wished to engage with them. Some who 
had hitherto spiritualized the words of Christ, " If I then, your 
Lord and Master, have washed your feet, ye also ought to wash 
one another's feet," were here convinced that the Lord meant as 
he said. As the time of my appointment at 5 o'clock, P. M., was 
near, the people concluded to stay without refreshment ; and I com- 
menced preaching immediately, enjoyed freedom, and a multitude 
were happy in God : so was I. ' Hallelujah to the Lamb !' I 
hope to sing his praise when time shall be no more. 

On Monday I preached in Rochester, and on Wednesday in 
Parma, from Gal. 6:7 : " Be not deceived" fyc. The Lord 
gave me a great discovery of the deception that is in the world. It 
appeared that all the sin which has filled the world with wo, and 
drenched the earth with blood, has come through deception. All 
the false doctrine, and unscriptural practices, which corrupt the 
church, are supported by deception. Therefore, Christians ought 
to be honest and sincere ; free from the works of darkness, that 
cannot bear the light ; for if we use deception, we act like Satan 
the deceiver. On Thursday we attended a meeting in Byron. 
Some had lately been converted, and others were almost persuad- 
ed to be Christians. 

Friday, May 21, we attended the Bethany quarterly meeting 
near Batavia village. A larger number of brethren assembled 
than I had ever seen west of the Connecticut river. A council 
was appointed to ordain brother Whitcher. Next morning at an 
early hour, the meeting was opened by the deaf and dumb brother, 
who has been named, [p. 39.] His inarticulate sounds — his 
flood of tears — and his earnest gestures, greatly affected the assem- 
bly, and the hardest hearts appeared to feel. The exercises through 
the day, and the refreshing reports of revivals and additions, were 
very interesting. Four sermons were preached on the Sabbath, 
and much tenderness observed among the people. At the close, 
some came forward for prayer, and such as were resolved to make 
their way from earth to heaven were invited to manifest it by ris- 
ing. More than one thousand arose — on which, the deaf and dumb 
brother cried out in his mournful accents, and a deep impression 
was made on the assembly. During this meeting, we tarried at the 
house of brother Gibbs, in Batavia village. His wife was lately 
21 



242 MEMOIRS OP 






a member of the Presbyterian church in this place, and much es- 
teemed by all. We had understood, that she had ' relieved the af- 
flicted/ and prayed at almost every sick bed in the vicinity, and 
that her faith and good works were spoken of by thousands. She 
was often, contrary to their usual custom, suffered to speak in their 
meetings, and sometimes in their assembly on the Sabbath. But, 
to the surprise of her brethren, she told them she had ' been con- 
vinced by the word and Spirit of the Lord God, that it was her 
duty to be baptized. She received a dismission, united with the 
Free-will Baptists, and was baptized in the presence of a large 
assembly. This person, I was informed, was the first that had 
been immersed in this village, though it had been built forty years. 
She told us that for seven years she had set apart every Friday, 
to fast and pray for the .conversion of her family. Few Christians 
are more constant in prayer than this woman ; and since she was 
baptized, her husband and five or six of her children have been 
hopefully converted. 

After the quarterly meeting, I preached in Elba and Royalton ; 
then went into Upper Canada, attended a meeting at Stony Creek, 
and on the Sabbath preached in Oxford. We met an affectionate 
reception from our friends, and the next day held a meeting in Zorra, 
On Tuesday I preached in a new settlement to forty or fifty peo- 
ple who were very serious, and one requested prayers. I preach- 
ed thrice in Oxford; and on Sabbath morning, June 6, started with 
Elder Harris and another brother, for Norwich. After passing 
eighteen miles, of which eight miles were in a foot-path, through a 
forest, we reached the place at 10 o'clock. Being wet and fatigued, 
I thought I should not speak much over half an hour ; but the 
Spirit rested on the assembly, and I spoke an hour and a half. In 
the afternoon, we walked eight miles to the lower part of the town ; 
the way being difficult, we arrived an hour past the time. The 
meeting was large and powerful. Two or three backsliders con- 
fessed, and some desired prayer. Monday, we passed through a 
ten mile wood, returned to Oxford, and held a meeting. Next day 
I preached in Nissouri with considerable freedom. Wednesday I 
started with Elder Harris and others, for the annual conference of 
the Free Communion Baptists. 

Friday, June 11, the annual conference commenced in this town. 
Brother Straight and myself had been appointed by the Holland 
Purchase yearly meeting to attend this conference and labor for a 
union. The subject was introduced, and dismissed, without any 
new decision. After the meeting of business, I preached with 
some freedom. Saturday morning, a sermon was preached by El- 
der Harris : and in the afternoon, their covenant and articles of 
faith were read. A woman under conviction, who had walked 



DAVID MARKS. 243 

more than twenty miles to this meeting, was relieved of her bur- 
den, and rejoiced in the Lord. In the evening I preached in Dun- 
wich. Several converts and females were present, who had walk- 
ed thirty miles. I have often been affected at the pains the poor 
people in Canada take to attend meetings, and at their gladness to 
hear the word of the Lord. On the Sabbath two sermons were 
delivered, and the communion administered. Sabbath evening, 
with the Free-will Baptist church in the east part of Southwold, 
I enjoyed a blessed season, which continued till midnight. 

Monday, I preached at St. Thomas, and felt the power of the 
Lord. Tuesday we went to London, where I preached with free- 
dom. The state of our churches in Canada was nearly the same as a 
year before. A few had been added in London. Brother Huck- 
ins appeared humble and engaged. He had gathered a small 
church in a place called Long Woods, which was enjoying a revi- 
val. 

I held meetings again in Zorra, Nissouri, and Oxford ; and on 
Thursday, June 24, we bade our relatives farewell, and returning 
to New York, attended a few meetings by the way. July 2, w r e 
arrived at North Penfield. Several had been converted since our 
last visit, and eighteen added to the church. We attended the On- 
tario quarterly meeting, held the 3d and 4th. On the Sabbath, 
during a discourse, the power of the Lord fell on a proud young 
man, who had been appointed to manage a ball the next day. He 
became much distressed, went a little distance from the assembly 
into the wood, and cried aloud for mercy. He found comfort soon 
after, and was baptized. After returning to Canandaigua, we held 
four meetings, and then started for the south. Between the 12th 
and 18th of July, I preached in Jerusalem, in Benton, four time 
in Milo, and once in Barrington. Some of these meetings were 
blessed ; and at the latter, I rejoiced to find a revival. 

Sabbath, July 18, I preached twice in Catlin; and Elder Stid, 
who attended with me, baptized six. Here the wilderness had be- 
come a ' fruitful field ;' in a short time many had been converted, 
and more than fifty baptized and added to the church. Monday 
and Tuesday, I preached in Jersey and at Mount Washington, and 
enjoyed solemn seasons. For several days I had been indisposed, 
and on Wednesday was able to ride only to Poultney, where I was 
confined till the next Sabbath. We were mostly at the house of 
Dr. Dean, whose skilful services, at this and several other times, 
were rendered gratis. In consequence of this illness, I disap- 
pointed sixteen congregations, four of which were supplied by a 
preacher, whom I engaged to attend in my stead. 

Sabbath, July 25, I preached twice in Poultney, and on Tuesday 
arrived at Canandaigua. Being still unwell, I stopped five or six 



244 MEMOIRS OF 

days, held three or four meetings, and baptized one . In the next 
week, I attended the Benton quarterly meeting, at West River in 
Middlesex. The reports of the churches were interesting. Tues- 
day, Aug. 10, we left Canandaigua, and in four days held meetings 
in Bristol, Richmond, and Sheldon, and visited my brother Ives r 
in Hamburg. He accompanied us to Boston, N. Y. where we 
spent the Sabbath and held two meetings. My brother here in- 
formed us that he had obtained a hope in Christ, and publicly con- 
fessed it for the first time. He was an apprentice, separated from 
his acquaintance, and suffered almost constantly from a lameness ; 
yet he appeared resigned, and said he was happy in saying, " Thy 
vrill be done" On our arrival at Batavia, we met Elders Brown, 
Jenkins, and Straight, with an assembly coming out of the court 
house, where they had just organized a church of eleven members. 
A revival was progressing under the labors of brother Straight, 
which, we understood, was the first that had ever been in this vil- 
lage. After an hour's notice, about two hundred assembled in the 
court house, to whom I spoke with much freedom. I next held 
meetings in Bethany and Middlebury, which were solemn and im- 
pressive. At the latter place, I have since understood, a revival 
followed. July 21 — 23, we attended the Bethany quarterly meet- 
ing at Groveland. The exercises were spiritual, and some came 
forward for prayers. 

Friday, Aug. 27, 1830, we attended the Holland Purchase year- 
ly meeting at Clarkson. The reports from the quarterly meetings 
were unusually interesting. The general state of engagedness ap- 
peared to have greatly increased, and a time of such revival had 
never before been enjoyed. At this time the Allegany quarterly 
meeting was received : — and it appeared that within the year past, 
the number of members in the yearly meeting had increased near- 
ly one quarter. Saturday, four discourses were delivered ; on the 
Sabbath the assembly was large, and eighteen ordained ministers 
were present. Three excellent sermons were preached, which were 
followed by weighty and spiritual exhortations. One of these was 
from Elder R. Carey. He had been ill for years, yet he had come 
seventy-five miles, by short stages, to attend this meeting. A little 
son of his came to take care of him ; and late in the afternoon, 
which was as soon as he was able, some brethren helped him as- 
cend the stand, and being seated, he addressed the people. Ev- 
ery eye was fixed on his pale face, and every ear attentive to his 
voice. Several dropped a tear at his feeble appearance, and our 
sympathy was increased by the reflection, that his abundant labors 
to win souls to Christ, had increased his infirmities, and compelled 
him to retire from the gospel field. His words were few and 
weighty ; and on leaving the stand, he wept — as though conscious 



DAVID MARKS. 245 

he might no more meet his brethren in yearly meeting. Many 
were much affected. The subject of Masonry was again introduc- 
ed ; and a resolve passed, I think in the following words : " Agreed, 
that, if anything can be proved by human testimony, it is abun- 
dantly manifest that the institution of Free Masonry is wicked in 
the extreme ; and we do most earnestly entreat all our brethren to 
renounce their masonic obligations ; and have nothing to do with 
that system." 



CHAPTER XXIII. 

My Fifth Journey to New England. 

Having been appointed a delegate to the General Conference, 
which was to meet the ensuing Oct. in R. L, I made arrangements 
to spend the winter in New England. Monday, Sept. 6, we com- 
menced our journey, and during the week travelled one hundred 
and forty miles, and attended meetings in Tyre and Fabius. In 
consequence of illness I failed of three other appointments. Sat- 
urday and Sabbath, we attended the first session of the Norwich 
quarterly meeting at New Berlin. Two years and a half previous, 
Elder Adon Aldrich came to this town and gathered the first Free- 
will Baptist church in these parts. The quarterly meeting con- 
tained three churches, about one hundred and twelve members, 
two elders, and three unordained preachers. During the meeting, I 
gave three discourses ; the brethren were engaged, and conviction 
reached the hearts of sinners. Saturday, Sept. 18, we arrived at 
Arlington, Vermont, the native town of my companion, and met a 
kind reception from our relatives. We attended worship with the 
Episcopalian church on the Sabbath, and Mr. Perkins, their pas- 
tor, invited me to preach in the afternoon. The invitation was 
unexpected, but accepted with pleasure. 

Mon. Sept. 27, we resumed our journey, and Oct. 1st arrived at 
Burlington, Conn., where we were kindly welcomed by my uncle 
Marks and family. Six years before, I had a sweet interview with 
my grandfather Marks, but now his place was empty. He died of 
apoplexy five years since. I attended three meetings in Burling- 
ton ; and the week following we visited relatives in Newtown, 
Danbury, New-Milford, and Southington. In Southington we 
passed the house where my mother's parents once resided, and 
where I spent months of my childhood ; but nearly all the former 
21* 



246 MEMOIRS OF 

inhabitants were dead, and strangers dwelt in their place. time, 
what changes dost thou make ! Saturday, we visited my aunt 
Graves in Middletown. But O what a change in this family since 
my former visit! Elder Graves and two of his daughters had 
fallen by the spotted fever. Next day, we attended meeting with 
the Calvinistic Baptists. Being invited, I spoke to the people in 
the afternoon, and felt the doctrine of the Lord distil upon me 
i like the dew/ I understood the church of which Elder Graves 
had the care severely felt the loss of their pastor, and were in a 
low state ; but as the time of Conference was near, I could not visit 
them. 

Monday morning, my aunt accompanied us a little distance to 
the grave-yard, where Elder Graves, his parents, his two daugh- 
ters, and a young man engaged to one of them in marriage, all lay 
side by side. At the head of each was a large white marble slab 
with appropriate inscriptions. Aunt remarked, that this lonely 
spot seemed more like home, than her empty habitation. Thus 
" man lieth down, and riseth not : till the heavens be no more, 
they shall not awake, nor be raised out of their sleep" Never 
did I feel a deeper sense of man's mortality, than at this time. O 
what is man ? " He cometh forth like a flower — he neeth also as 
a shadow." In two days, we arrived at Greenville in Smithfield, 
Rhode-Island ; and rejoiced to meet with many dear brethren, par- 
ticularly Elder E. Place, whose labors had been a blessing to us at 
the last Conference. 

Thursday, Oct. 14, 1830, the General Conference commenced at 
9 o'clock, A. M. The meeting of business continued till Saturday 
evening. In general, much unanimity prevailed, and our hearts 
were so united by love, that we could say, as did two disciples on 
another occasion, " Did not our heart burn within us ?" At this 
Conference, from the reports received, there appeared to be in the 
denomination, seven yearly meetings, thirty quarterly meetings, 
four hundred and thirty-six churches, and three hundred and ten 
ordained preachers. Probably some of these numbers fall short of 
a correct enumeration. 

Messengers were present from every part of the connexion, ex- 
cept Ohio yearly meeting, from which a refreshing letter was re- 
ceived. During the sitting of Conference, meetings of worship 
were held at the meeting-house, except on the forenoon of Thurs- 
day and Friday. Sabbath morning, about two thousand people 
assembled, and, unexpectedly, I was informed that the preachers 
thought it would be my duty to preach. I had no particular sub- 
ject on my mind, and wished some other one to go forward ; but 
all declined. A sense of the importance of this hour — the respon- 
sibility of the speaker, and the reflection that the aged and the 



DAVID MAfcKS. 247 

learned were present, and that I was but a youth, made my spirit 
sink within me, and it seemed as though I was less than the " dust 
of the balance." But, as Erskine says, 

"He cuts me down to build me up, 
He empties me to fill my cup/' 

Second Tim. 3:16, occurred to my mind with some degree of light. 
I thought it a suitable text for the occasion, and concluded to speak 
from it. But while the messengers were giving a summary of the 
revivals reported from different parts of the connexion, my text 
went from me, and I could not recollect it. The time for speaking 
drew near — I was empty and confused— I cried to the Lord for 
help ; and just before I arose, the text was brought to my remem- 
brance : " All scripture is given by inspiration of God f and is 
profitable for doctrine" My mind was composed, the subject 
opened with unexpected clearness, and after some introduction, I 
proposed — 

I. To present some of the many arguments that establish the 
divine authenticity of the Scriptures. 

II. To show what doctrine the Scriptures teach. 

On the first division, I argued the authenticity of the Scriptures. 
1. From the prophecies and their fulfilment. 2. From the mira- 
cles — whose authenticity is supported by a greater weight of testi- 
mony than any other facts of equal antiquity. 3. From their in- 
ternal evidences, and agreement with general history. 4. From 
their unparalleled number of martyrs, considering the varied char- 
acter, circumstances, and manner, in which they have suffered. 

On the second proposition, I spoke, 1. Of God, his unity, and 
attributes. 2. Of the creation of man in purity, and in the image 
of God. 3. Of the accountability of man, and the law under which 
he is placed. 4. Of the transgression of Adam, his fall, and its 
effect on his posterity. 5. Of the atonement made by Christ* 
6. Of regeneration* 7* Of the church of Christ. 8. Of its disci- 
pline and government. 9. Of its ordinances. 10. Of persever- 
ance. 11. Of the general judgment. 12. Of the final destinies of 
all men. 

It pleased the Lord to give me unusual freedom, and I spoke 
nearly two hours. The Holy Spirit moved on the people, and 
much of the time many wept. Several became resolved to seek 
the Lord. Among these was a merchant at Greenville, who had 
hitherto trusted in morality for salvation ; and a school teacher 
who had taken refuge in atheism. In the intermission, I felt 
exceedingly humbled for my unprofitableness, and groaned in 
spirit, fearing that I had occupied a place that might have been 
filled more profitably by another. In the afternoon, the meeting- 
house and academy were filled to overflowing. AYe attended at the 



248 MEMOIRS OF 

latter place, where Elder Place preached a pathetic discourse, from 
Luke 2:14 : " Glory to God in the highest" &c. He appeared to 
be full of the Spirit of the Lord. While he was praying for me, 
one expression affected me much : — " O Lord, he has rode on the 
King's beast, and worn the King's apparel — now may he sit down, 
like Mordecai, in the King's gate, and remember that he is but a 
man." 

Sabbath evening, I spoke with freedom to about five hundred 
people, in the vestry of Elder Tobey's meeting house at Provi- 
dence, and they heard attentively. On Tuesday, I preached in 
Burrillville and Blackstone. At the latter place, a revival had 
lately commenced. Several kneeled, while prayers were offered 
for their salvation. Next day, I preached in North Providence ; 
and the day following assisted in preparing for publication, the 
Minutes of the four sessions of the Freewill Baptist General Con- 
ference. We did this by the appointment of the Conference ; and 
in the week following, I published them in a pamphlet of twenty- 
four pages. This is the first work of the kind published in the 
connexion, and is an interesting article to those who wish to become 
acquainted with the denomination. It is not designed as a disci- 
pline, but simply to show what we believe is taught and required 
in the law of Christ I preached in Cranston, on " the fulness of 
times ;" and, through grace, my soul was full of comfort. O that 
I were as thankful as I ought to be. On Friday, I preached in 
Johnston and Greenville. At the former meeting, some appeared 
seriously impressed ; and at the latter, several came forward for 
prayer. Reformation now began to be visible in Greenville. Of 
the four sessions of the General Conference, revivals have followed 
three. Saturday evening, and Sabbath, Oct. 24, I preached four 
times in Pawtucket, and enjoyed liberty. The assemblies increas- 
ed ; and at the last meeting, the people could hardly be convened 
in the house. The word was blessed to some, one of whom I un- 
derstood was soon converted. 

On Monday, Oct. 25, I had designed to start for Maine, where I 
had sent appointments. But Elder Tobey having strongly solici- 
ted us to spend a week in Providence, they had been withdrawn, 
and Ave accepted the invitation, making his house our home. I 
preached in the evening at the house of Elder Allen Brown. Three 
or four preachers were present, the governor's wife and daughter, 
and several of the higher class. Yet the Lord hid the " fear of 
man" from me, and enabled me to speak with much boldness. 
Wednesday evening, I spoke with freedom to about two hundred 
people, in the west part of the town ; and on the next evening, 
again at the vestry, which was filled. Friday, I attended a meet- 
ing in Greenville. A few had found peace, and fifteen came for- 



DAVID MARKS. 249 

ward for prayer. The day follow] ng, on our way to Olneyville, 
while reading the manner in which the Indians had been " rooted 
out" of their " good land/' and reduced to a handful, I was led to 
reflect on the iniquity that has polluted the earth, and the misery 
that has made " the whole creation" groan and travail " in pain to- 
gether until now." Such was the scene of madness, folly, and sin, 
now presented to my view, that I wept for miles — My heart was 
filled with pain, and I said, " O that my head were waters, and 
mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might weep day and night for" 
a ruined world. On our arrival at Olneyville, I told Elder Che- 
ney my feelings ; and, as I had an appointment at his meeting 
house, he gave me this text, " We know that we are of God, and 
the whole world lieth in wickedness" I preached from it, and had 
a solemn time. Next morning, the house was filled, and I spoke 
again with freedom. In the afternoon, I preached on the atone- 
ment, at Elder Tobey's meeting house in Providence ; and in the 
evening, to about one thousand people in the same place, on the 
subject of faith. The Lord assisted me, blessed be his name. Dur- 
ing our stay in Providence, Elder Tobey showed us many favors, 
and through his influence I received a present of a cloak. 

We had now been in P. I. seventeen days, and had constantly 
met with unexpected kindness. I had been unable to comply with 
one half of the earnest solicitations for preaching ; and the entrea- 
ties of many, especially in Smithfield, that I should return, after 
meeting my engagements in Maine, influenced me to abandon my 
intention of spending the fall in that state, and to leave appoint- 
ments for my immediate return. Monday, Nov. 1, we started in 
company with Elder A. Rollins and wife for Maine. In the even- 
ing, I preached in Boston, Mass., and the next evening at Haver- 
hill, on the Merrimack. Here I was filled with the love of God. 
Wednesday evening, I preached at Dover, N. H., and the next day 
visited the different rooms of the calico manufactory, a building of 
six stories. While examining the machinery, I remembered the 
scripture, " Man hath sought out many inventions ;" and, thought I, 
' If men were half as wise in the care of their souls, as they are 
anxious in their care for the body, the world would be happy.' 
Nov. 6, I preached in Parson sfielcl, Me., and on the Sabbath, spoke 
with usual freedom to a crowded assembly at Limerick corner. I 
attended two meetings on Monday, and the next morning started 
for E. I. In the evening, I met about eight hundred people in the 
Methodist chapel at Somersworth, N. H. 

Thursday, Nov. 11, we continued our journey, and on Saturday 
arrived at Pawtucket, much fatigued. In the evening I preached 
in this place, and on the Sabbath spoke in much weakness at Prov- 
idence, North Providence, and Greenville. In the latter, I enjoy- 



250 MEMOIRS OF 

ed a good season. After the meeting, I was sick, and went out lit- 
tle till the next Tuesday. During our absence, the number of the 
anxious had increased, and a few were brought into liberty. 
Among these, were the merchant and atheist named before. The 
former, I understood, on hearing that his wife was converted, wept 
aloud for two hours, and prayed for mercy ; and in a meeting short- 
ly after he said, ' I had built what I thought a fine fabric — and 
trusted in morality. But I thank God that he has thrown it all 
down.' This seemed to overthrow a refuge of the wicked, who had 
often pointed to Mr. A., saying, ' Show us a Christian that is more 
upright.' During the week, I preached in Scituate, Greenville, 
twice in Gloucester, and enjoyed usual freedom. 

On the Sabbath, the meeting house at Greenville was filled with 
people, and I spoke on baptism. After this, Elder Allen, pastor of 
the church, baptized four. I gave a discourse in the afternoon on 
communion. In the evening we attended a conference ; saints 
were edified, and some mourners arose for prayer. Nov. 25, I met 
about four hundred people at the second Baptist church in Provi- 
dence, and the day following, preached at Sprague's manufactory 
in Smithfield; two were deeply exercised and kneeled in the time 
of prayer ; one of these, I understood, found peace the next day. 

Sabbath, Nov. 28, I preached three times in Chepachet with 
considerable freedom ; and at the close of the third sermon, I had 
such a sense of the state of the wicked, that I could not refrain 
from weeping aloud. During this week I held meetings in Burrill- 
ville, Smithfield, Scituate, and attended a conference at Greenville. 
The revival continued moderately. Sabbath forenoon, while speak- 
ing from Eccl. 12:1 4, I remarked that secrecy is a sign of iniquity ; 
and that Christians should be open in their conduct ; and quoted 
several scriptures against " the works of darkness" In the after- 
noon, we heard Elder William Hurley, a minister of the General 
Baptists, from England.* He preached an excellent discourse 
from Luke 13:24: " Strive to enter in at the strait gate," &c. In 
the evening I preached near Smithfield, and had a very interesting 
time ; several spoke, and six covenanted to seek the Lord. The 
next morning, a man asked me who I meant in my sermon, yester- 
day, when I said, " It is a shame to speak of those things that are 
done of them in secret." I told him that the saying was borrowed 
from the Bible, and that I meant all who do in secret that of which 
they are ashamed. " But," said he, " did you not mean masons ?" 
I said if masons do in secret those things of which it is a shame to 

* There are several sects of the Genera] Baptists in England. One of these is nearly 
the same in sentiment as the Freewill Baptists in America; and an interesting corres- 
pondence has existed between them and our denomination for about four years. Elder 
Hurley is a member of the connexion that corresponds with us. 



DAVID MARKS. 251 

speak, I did. " Well, well," said he, "you had better mind how 
you bring up a respectable body of men in public where they have 
not a chance to answer for themselves. I thought I should come to 
hear you preach in the evening ; but after hearing those remarks, 
I concluded that I would not." He then left me abruptly. Tues- 
day, I met three ministers at Greenville, to ordain Ethan Thorn- 
ton, a brother of Elder A. Thornton, deceased, to the office of a 
deacon. By his request, I preached on the occasion, and felt great- 
ly impressed with the importance of the duties of this sacred office. 
Next day, I had a meeting at Gloucester, and one who had cove- 
nanted with me to seek the Lord, gave evidence of having found 
Jesns. 

Thursday, Dec. 9, I attended a meeting at the meeting house in 
Greenville, which was designed to expose the iniquity of Free Ma- 
sonry. Elder — declining an invitation to make the introduc- 
tory prayer, the request was addressed to me. And as the voice of 
inspiration says, " I will that men pray every where," I accepted 
the invitation. After this, we heard a very candid and able dis- 
course on the subject, from Mr. Moses Thatcher, a Congregational- 
ist minister. Then an aged and venerable Quaker, who had been 
a mason, testified, that the disclosures relative to Free Masonry 
were correct, as far as he had taken the degrees. I had said noth- 
ing on the subject, in any public meeting in New-England, and 
had intended to be silent in this meeting ; but now a trembling 
seized me, and I felt impressed, I believed, by the Spirit of the 
Lord, to state some facts with which I had been acquainted, con- 
nected with the abduction of Morgan. For I had found, to my 
surprise, that such had been the power of the deception used by the 
fraternity, that very many supposed that Morgan had never been 
taken away by masons ; or if he had, that it was only done by a 
few, and the deed was disapproved by the institution, &c. I was 
acquainted with facts which were weighty on the subject ; and I 
believed I should be condemned by God, if I now withheld these 
things from the people. I also knew there were serious persons in 
the multitude present, to whom the silence of Christians respecting 
this evil was a great " stumbling block." Therefore, lest I should 
be guilty of the blood of souls, T stated some facts, gave my testi- 
mony against the institution, made an apology for those that had 
been taken in the snare, entreating the people to deal tenderly with 
them, and warned sinners to be cautious, lest this subject should 
take their attention from their eternal interests. I spoke about fif- 
teen minutes. Most of the assembly wept, and after meeting, some 
to whom this subject had been a trial, manifested seriousness for the 
first time, and with tears asked me to pray for them. From this 
time, however, the countenance and conduct of those that were in 



252 MEMOIRS OP 






heart attached to the institution were materially changed — some 
that had appeared to be my friends turned against me — and letters, 
unfriendly, cruel, and slanderous, were sent before me to Maine, 
apparently to hedge up my way.* This was unexpected opposi- 
tion, and such as I had never before met from * * ■ * * * 
My heart was filled with mourning, and I wept day and night. I 
little thought, when I came to visit my dear brethren in the east, 
that for the conscientious discharge of my duty, I should have to 

* The following is a copy of one of these letters signed by the pastor of North Provi- 
dence church. Another was an anonymous communication from which a few extracts 
are taken- These are here introduced by the advice of some judicious friends who 
thought their insertion would exemplify the spirit of Masonry, and that the recent revi- 
val of this order demands that light on this subject should be thrown before the public 
mind. 

" North Providence, Dec. 20, 1830. 

Brother Burbank, [Editor of Morning Star:] 

Elder Marks has not left this section yet. His last visit has been a cause of grief to 
most of us, and we have no doubt he came back on purpose to blow the coals of Anti- 
Masonry. He for some time did it secretly, and while receiving such things as he needed 
from brethren, most of whom were masons. Just before he left Greenville, in the height 

of revival, he, in a public meeting, spoke on the subject, and poor brother is 

now left to labor against prejudices of his creating We fear it will stop the work, and 
were I the person who had done it, I should fear lest at the day of doom some should 
reproach me as the cause of their ruin. We believe he has done more real injury to the 
cause of religion in this part, than he will do good elsewhere for months to come. Be- 
lieve me, your affectionate, though unworthy brother, .'' 

" Mr. Burbank, Sir, — You will pardon me for intruding on your generosity, while the 
feelings of my heart prompt me to make a few remarks preparatory against the fowler's 
snare. I have a particular regard for the people whose cause you vindicate, and their 
prosperity, union, happiness, and church fellowship, lead me to adopt this method as a 
means of exertion for continued good feelings and friendship among the Free-will Bap- 
tists. I design this letter as a caution for you to not be too hasty in making any inser- 
tions that may be sent or presented you by David Marks. I am apt to think he will dip 
his pen in gall against the little village of Greenville, or at least some of its w r orthy in- 
habitants. When the General Conference was held in Oct. last, he (Marks,) preached on 
Sabbath, A. M., was received by the congregation with very general applause, by the 
brethren with cordial cheer, and their houses a receptacle, a very welcome receptacle for 
himself and companion, and their barns and granaries for his horse. As a Christian min- 
ister he was received, as a Christian minister he was treated, and considered to be la- 
boring for the upbuilding of Zion's cause. But soon, to the sorrow and surprise of the 
pastor of the church, he began to weave himself into the graces of some of the church 
members by traducing a certain class of people called Free Masons, or the institution 
from which they derive their name, and which is the same thing. This circumstance 
gave him an introduction to certain families who have ever been opposed to Free-will 
Baptists, as well as masons, and he expostulated freely in favor of the anti-masonic 

cause, and has borne hard upon Elder , he being a nominal mason. This course 

he pursued wherever he thought it would do, although he ever appeared to Eld. 's 

face to be a well wisher to him, — yet it appeared to be his aim to undermine him, that he 
might slide into his shoes* ***** 

A man, called by some the Hon. Moses Thatcher, of Wrentham, Mass. (and late, but 
not successful, candidate for representative to Congress, and a most violent seceding ma- 
son,) held forth at the meeting house occupied by Elder , in which, he (Marks,) took 

a very active part, and as many candid persons thought, who were present, clothed his 
remarks with a hypocritical revenge. * * * He seems to have spared no pains to 
raise an excitement, and for what purpose I cannot conceive, unless it is to publish his 

real character, or, in other words, to level down Eld. , and level himself up. If he 

proceeds in the same manner wherever he goes, you will find your churches all in an up- 
roar. I do not write this to injure Mr. Marks, but to let you know his management, 
hoping, by these means, that some check may be given to his conduct, and that peace 
and harmony may rest on, and dwell among. Free-will Baptists, and they not be thrown 
into disorder, by one who acts or conducts like a wolf in sheep's clothing. Therefore, 
set your bounds in season, lest the publications Marks would palm upon you, might se- 
cretly, and ere you are aware, lead you and the whole denomination into trouble. * * 
From a professor, and I humbly trust a possessor, of religion." 



DAVID MARKS. 253 

endure such opposition. But this is nothing, compared with what 
my Lord has endured for me : and he said of the world, " Me it 
hateth, because I testify of it, that the works thereof are evil" There- 
fore, I have been enabled to commit these things to him who 
"judgeth righteously" and pray that u my misjudging friends" may 
consider what these Scriptures mean : " Touch not mine anointed, 
and do my prophets no harm" — f Inasmuch as ye have done it unto 
one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me" 

On Saturday I preached at Olneyville, and on the Sabbath gave 
my farewell discourse in Greenville. Some wept aloud, and nine 
covenanted to seek the Lord as long as they lived. Several breth- 
ren and friends, knowing that I had made a considerable sacrifice 
to return to this state, communicated liberally ; especially as they 
knew I had received very little, because I had testified against the 
works of iniquity. After preaching in North Providence, Provi- 
dence, Pawtucket, Rehoboth, and Attleborough, we went in a steam- 
boat to Newport, where we spent six days. I preached six times, 
and enjoyed some freedom. We were kindly received by Elders 
Eddie and McKenzie. The latter is a young man of the age of 
eighteen years, and was ordained the spring before. He had the 
care of a considerable church, and appeared humble and well en- 
gaged. We were told that he commenced preaching in his father's 
chamber, when a little boy ; and gathered a society of about fifty 
of his age, each of whom gave a cent every week which was dis- 
tributed to the poor. 

We visited the graveyard in Newport. It contained some acres, 
and the greater part is closely filled with graves. Unnumbered 
monuments and tomb-stones of all kinds were standing, inclining, 
or lying on the ground. For an hour we walked over " the con- 
gregation of the dead;" and when I saw how time had baffled the 
labors of men to perpetuate their memory, and that they lay here 
forgotten, I fell on my face, and cried, ' Alas, this is the end of my 
race, and thus the glory of man fades away! My eyes have seen 
an end of all earthly perfection.' We also visited the Jews' syna- 
gogue, which is an elegant square brick building. While we view- 
ed the altar, the ten commandments written on plates of brass, the 
vessels of Mosaic work, the candlesticks, whose lights had gone 
out, and the burying ground, all of which seemed desolate monu- 
ments of wealth and grandeur ; and while we reflected that not a 
Jew remained on the island, we were reminded of what the cruci- 
fiers of the Savior said, " His blood be on us, and on our children," 
and of the numerous prophecies concerning the desolations of that 
unbelieving nation. Truly God has visited " the iniquities of the 
fathers upon the children" that hate him ; and has required the 
blood of the Son of God at their hand. 
22 



254 MEMOIRS OP 

I next held three meetings in Boston. Several were revived, 
and some were awakened. On Saturday, Dec. 25, we attended 
the Roman Catholic celebration of Christmas, or the birth-day of 
Christ. More than two thousand people were present, seven hun- 
dred of whom we understood were members of the Roman Catho- 
lic church. They played on several kinds of instruments of music, 
and accompanied them with singing. Here we saw their images, 
paintings, and candles burning at noon day ; and a great many oth- 
er things not named in the Bible. Several priests, and a bishop 
attended, clad in very sumptuous apparel, which, at a little dis- 
tance, appeared to be cloth covered with gold and silver, gems and 
needle-work. The attire of the bishop surpassed that of the oth- 
ers in show and grandeur. He had also a mitre on his head, that 
appeared to be gilded. A part of the time they stood with their 
backs to the people, frequently kneeling before their images, and 
then immediately rising, — some of the time they read prayers in 
Latin. A young priest, clad in a white surplice, preached to the 
people ; but his voice was so feeble that we could only occasion- 
ally understand a word. Christians, thought I, who desire un- 
scriptural practices, and worldly grandeur, may come here and learn 
instruction. Here they may see, that after men depart from the 
simplicity of the Bible, they will not be content till they obtain all 
the glory of Babylon. When I had looked on the vanity that was 
exhibited on this occasion, under pretence of worshipping God, my 
soul hated, more than ever, the worldly display of the anti-christian 
worship ; and I felt to thank God that the pure and holy religion 
of Jesus Christ disdains this outward pomp, and possesses a glory 
that will not fade away. 

I preached at the Methodist chapel in Charlestown, then went 
to Haverhill and held five or six meetings. These were attended 
with considerable of the good spirit. One of them, on the last even- 
ing of the year, was what is called a " watch meeting" and it con- 
tinued with considerable interest till after midnight. In this meet- 
ing, I preached two sermons. In another, I preached from Ezek. 
13:22, " Because with lies ye have made the heart of the righteous 
sad, whom I have not made sad ; and strengthened the hands of the 
wicked, that he shoidd not return from his wicked way, by promising 
him life" In this meeting a backslider, who had embraced Univer- 
salism, was convinced of his error, and from this time sought the 
Lord till he found salvation. The brethren in this place commu- 
nicated to me liberally. In the early part of January, 1831, I 
preached in Dover, Rochester, and three or four times in Somers- 
worth. The meeting at Rochester was impressive, and a few came 
forward for prayer. 

From the 10th of Jan. to the 12th of Feb. 1831, I spent in vis- 



DAVID MARKS. 255 

iting and preaching daily with churches in the south-west part of 
Me., and in attendance at the Parsonsfield and Gorham quarterly 
meetings. I was very kindly received, and in several places saw 
the salvation of God. 

An eclipse of the sun happened on the 12th of February, and 
more than eleven twelfths of its surface darkened; yet the 
light was considerable. This reminded me of the time when it 
" shall be turned to darkness." Again, I thought, as a twelfth part 
of the sun giveth so much light, so does a little influence from 
Christ, " the Sun of righteousness," greatly illuminate a darkened 
world. After this, we went to Portland, and were affectionately 
received by Elder E. Shaw, with whom I had been acquainted in 
New York. He now had the care of a church of about one hun- 
dred and thirty members, belonging to the Christian connexion 
that had lately separated from the Christian church in this place, 
on account of the introduction of instrumental music and such like 
things. They had built a plain and convenient house of worship. 
I held six or seven meetings with them, for two or three days vis- 
ited with Elder Shaw from house to house, and found some peni- 
tent souls that desired salvation. 

In the latter part of February, we went to Brunswick and Tops- 
ham, beautiful villages on the Androscoggin. In these towns the 
Lord was reviving his work, and several had been brought to re- 
joice. I preached with the people seven times, and enjoyed some 
good seasons. In the early part of March, I held two meetings in 
Lisbon, five in Richmond, and nine or ten in Gardiner, a town on 
the Kennebec. In Richmond, the brethren were well engaged, 
and our meetings were times of rejoicing. At Gardiner, I enjoyed 
usual freedom. A revival was progressing in one neighborhood. 
In one of my meetings, twenty came forward for prayer ; many 
exhorted, and it was a very refreshing time. At one of my ap- 
pointments in the village of Gardiner, a rumor was circulated with- 
out my knowledge, that I would preach against Free Masonry. 
On this, as well as on several other similar occasions, I thought it 
my duty to confine myself to other important subjects, though by 
this means the people were disappointed. Indeed, I have never 
spoken upon this subject, except when I. believed it would be a 
crime for me to be silent. At another appointment, two hours be- 
fore the time arrived for the meeting to commence, I assented to a 
request to preach on the subject, and a crowd of people attended. 
I read Gen. 49:5, 6, 7, " Simeon and Levi are brethren — instru- 
ments of cruelty are in their habitations. my soul, come not thou 
into their secret ; unto their assembly, mine honor, be not thou unit- 
ed ! for in their anger they slew a man, and in their self-will they 
digged down a wall. Cursed be their anger, for it was fierce; and 



256 MEMOIRS OF 

their wrath, for it was cruel : I will divide them in Jacob, and 
scatter them in Israel" When I had read to the clause — " they 
slew a man" — I paused, and several appeared to feel very keenly, 
that its application was unavoidable. I had understood that my 
discourse was to have an immediate answer, so I gave liberty ; 
but .every man remained silent. 

Between the 13th and 25th of March, on our return to Limer- 
ick, I preached it Litchfield, Bowdoinham, Topsham, Brunswick, 
Portland, Grorham, Scarborough, and Buxton, Some of these 
meetings were attended with much of the good Spirit, and I expect 
to meet some fruits of them in eternity. The brethren in Gardin- 
er, Richmond, and Portland, communicated liberally of their sub- 
stance. We spent nearly a week in Limerick and Parsonsfield, 
and attended eight meetings ; then met appointments in Wake- 
field and Newfield. Sabbath, April 3, I preached three sermons 
in Ossipee to a considerable assembly, that was very solemn. In 
this place we had a short interview with a sister of Elder Benja- 
min Randall, the founder of . the Free-will Baptist denomination. 
She appeared to be a " mother in Israel ;" and we were much de- 
lighted by her plainness and humility. She remarked that her 
brother, Elder Randall, was a very plain man, and was ever op- 
posed to the pride and superfluity that too often dishonor professed 
Christians. After this, I preached in Effingham, Parsonsfield, and 
twice in Brownfield. The last of these discourses was given on a 
funeral occasion, and to me it was a dark and trying time ; jet, 
soon after this, I understood, one was converted that dated her 
awakening at this meeting. Thus he that soweth, " knoweth not 
whether shall prosper, either this or that." Next I held meetings 
in Parsonsfield, Limington, Cornish, Hollis, and Biddeford. In these 
places there were signs of good, and we enjoyed $ good degree of 
the divine influence. 

Thursday, April 21, had been appointed by the governor of 
Maine for a fast, — and agreeably to previous appointment, I met 
a congregation at the west meeting house in Limington, and preach- 
ed a sermon, showing what kind of a fast the Lord requireth. See 
Isa. 58. 

May 1, 1831, we started on a journey to Massachusetts, New 
Hampshire, and Vermont. I preached to assemblies in Water- 
borough and Great Falls, and felt remarkably strengthened of the 
Lord in trying to pull down the strong holds of satan.* A good 

* During the day previous to the evening meeting at Great Falls, one of the leading 
brethren in the church said to Mr. Marks, that he hoped he would say nothing against 
Masonry, as the masons in that place were popular and powerful. It was further stated, 
that the masons said that Morgan's disclosures were a lie, and the story of his abduction 
a mere hoax. Mr. Marks also learned that young brethren and converts were constant- 
ly joining the fraternity, supposing it to be a "handmaid to religion." His mind was 



DAVID MARKS. 257 

revival was progressing in the latter place, and at an inquiry meet- 
ing, ten came forward for prayer. Wednesday evening, I preach- 
ed with much freedom in Dover to a large assembly, and many 
wept aloud. I next met appointments in Strafford and Barnstead. 
These were good seasons, and one covenanted to kneel and pray 
three times daily for a year. On Saturday and Sabbath, I preach- 
ed once in Pittsfield and thrice in Epsom ; and at the latter place 
felt greatly humbled for my unprofitableness. During ten days 
following, I attended two meetings in Hawke, five in Haverhill, 
three in Boston, and one in Dover. Some of these were times of 
trial, others were seasons of much rejoicing, and the word appear- 
ed to fall " into good ground," 

Wednesday and Thursday, May 18 and 19, we attended the 
'New Durham quarterly meeting in Middleton, N. H. This quar- 
terly meeting was formed about forty-eight years ago, and is the 
oldest in the connexion. Two aged brethren were present, who, 
we understood, were converted at or before the time that Elder 
Randall became a Christian, and were "yoke fellows" with him, 
from the first of his religious course to the end of his useful life. 
These were very plain, grave, and apparently very holy men. One 
of them was a man of few words; the other was called a noisy 
Christian, as he sometimes said "Amen" and shouted, saying, 
" Glory to God" in time of worship. On the first day reports 
were received from about thirty churches ; some of them were en- 
joying revivals. Several exhortations were given, after which I 
spoke from Ps. 27:4, 5, " One thing have I desired of the Lord," 
&c. Next day I spoke two hours and twenty minutes with much 
freedom. In the afternoon, Elder Blaisdell delivered a discourse, 
and a few came forward for prayer. Through the kindness and in- 
fluence of Elders Place and Blaisdell, I here received a collection 

now in deep trials. To look on in silence and see young Christians drawn into such a 
snare, while he had facts in his possession that would enlighten their minds, was what 
he dared not decide to do. It was very painful to all the feelings of his nature to incur 
the censure of brethren, but he could not be recreant to-just principles. After spending 
much time in prayer, he went calmly to his appointment. His text was Eccl. 12:14, 
" For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be 
good or whether it be evil." Among the secret things which he enumerated that God 
would judge, were the secret oaths and obligations of Free Masonry. Soon after he 
named this subject, several persons came in, and some appeared much agitated, while 
quite a crowd were about the door. He turned around and addressed them with great 
pathos and power, portrayed the awful scenes of the judgment in the most living colors. 
Profound awe seemed to seize the new listeners. The moral sublimity of this scene 
cannot be described. At the close of the services, a Christian friend, who was a nomin- 
al mason, said to him, " Brother Marks, don't go now ; there is a collection of people 
without, and a great excitement." When the congregation was passing out, this friend 
took Mr. Marks by the arm and led him out with the crowd, unobserved, through files of 
men standing on each side. Mr. Marks was afterwards informed, that during his ser- 
mon the lodge was in session; but, on hearing that he was speaking against masonry, 
they immediately adjourned and came to the meeting. Next morning there was much 
excitement throughout the village, and on the corners of the streets, groups of men were 
standing and talking earnestly in angry and exciting tones. Some of the brethren, think- 
ing it unsafe for Mr. Marks to leave the village alone, accompanied him to Dover.— Ed. 

22* 



258 MEMOIRS OF 

of about fifteen dollars. Friday, I preached at the funeral of a 
man in Wolf borough. I was told that two days before his death, 
he remarked, lightly, " In two days my day of grace will be past" 
But O, how little did he think he was speaking the truth ! He 
came suddenly to his end by the kick of a horse. I next preached 
with usual freedom in Wolf borough, twice in Tuftonborough, twice 
in Sandwich, once in Meredith, and once in Holderness. 

Saturday and Sabbath, May 28 and 29, we attended the Sand- 
wich quarterly meeting, held at Alexandria. I preached twice at 
this meeting, once from Matt. 16:26, "For what is a man profited, 
if he shall gain the whole world and lose his oivn soul ?" &c. ; and 
while speaking, the power of the Lord came upon me — his light 
shined before me — and the worth of the soul, and again its loss, 
opened to my mind with such awful sublimity, that I was carried 
beyond all my former conceptions and feelings. I beheld my fel- 
low creatures sinking ! — sinking ! — sinking ! — with Christ before 
their eyes. And once or twice I was so much overpowered that it 
seemed as though I should lose my breath. The assembly that- 
stood within and without the house, was greatly affected. After 
the meeting, I visited several that appeared much awakened and 
quite tender ; but they would not promise to turn to God. O that 
this people knew the time of their visitation ! I staid the next day 
and held a meeting. Only a few came forward for prayer, and I 
left the place in deep mourning for the people of Alexandria. Af- 
ter preaching in Holderness and Campton, we proceeded to Lisbon, 
a town in the north-west part of New Hampshire, and attended a 
meeting. The state of religion was low in this place ; but, feeling 
an impression that God would revive his work immediately, I 
spoke from Matt. 3:3, " Prepare ye the way of the Lord" and told 
the people my impression. Saturday and Sabbath, June 4 and 5, 
we attended the Wheelock quarterly meeting, held in Cabot, Ver- 
mont. It appeared to be a time of some trial among the churches ; 
yet we enjoyed a good season, and several knelt for prayer. Af- 
ter this I preached with much freedom in Wheelock and Sutton. 
The latter meeting was on the day of military exercises ; two 
companies marched into the meeting house, with their equipments. 
My subject was, " the signs of the times/' We staid the night 
with Elder Woodman, and enjoyed a very agreeable interview. 

On Friday, June 10, 1831, I attended the annual meeting of the 
N. H. Charitable Society. Seventy-five brethren and preachers 
were present. A venerable man, of the age of seventy-seven, who 
was contemporary with Elder Randall, and had served as presi- 
dent of the society every year since its organization, arose and re- 
marked, that it had ever been their practice when they came to- 
gether, to make prayer unto God ; and that it would be well for 



DAVID MARKS. 259 

each to search for duty. After a little silence, Eld. Enoch Place 
fell on his knees, and prayed with much fervor. It appeared that 
there was a fund of about one thousand dollars belonging to the 
society ; and, that at each session of the yearly meeting, the socie- 
ty gave the interest of the money to the needy. Any man of good 
moral character might become a member, by giving five dollars, or 
by paying the interest on five dollars annually. Thirty-one per- 
sons became members at this meeting. 

Saturday, June 11, the New Hampshire yearly meeting opened. 
The forenoon was spent in business, and in hearing the reports 
from the quarterly meetings, which were considerably refreshing. 
In the afternoon, a sermon was delivered, and several exhortations 
were given by preachers and brethren. Sabbath morning, prayer 
meeting commenced at 8 o'clock, and before ten the meeting house 
was crowded. I spoke two hours and thirty-seven minutes, with 
much freedom, from Mark 16:15, 16. In the afternoon, Eld. Cav- 
erno preached from Dan. 7:9, 10, "I beheld till the thrones were 
cast down," &c. At the close, fifty-two persons stood in the galle- 
ries and sung the Judgment Anthem. This was solemn and im- 
pressive, and all gave the strictest attention. At 6 o'clock, about 
one hundred people assembled for a conference meeting. After 
several exhortations were given, Elder Place related a part of his 
experience, which was very remarkable, and stated some interest- 
ing particulars relative to his first acquaintance with the Free-will 
Baptists at New Durham, about thirty years ago. He said, that 
though Elder Randall was " little of stature," his face pale, and his 
appearance feeble, he had a voice like thunder, and his preaching 
was attended with great power. Also, that at that time, the de- 
nomination was so holy and humble, and their preaching so power- 
ful, that the work of God followed them wherever they went, — in- 
somuch that many, and he himself, thought their spirit was conta- 
gious ; and they feared to come nigh them, lest they should catch 
the same spirit. " But," said he, " I fear that we, as a people, are 
not what we once were — that a spirit of popularity is gaining 
among us. For more than twenty years I have kept, on myself 
and on this connexion, a jealous eye ; and it does not set well on 
my feelings, when I hear it said, " The Free-will Baptists are be- 
coming more orderly ; and when I hear the drunkard say, " they 
preached well" and the infidel say, " they are respectable" then 
my soul is pained, and I fear God will send us a curse instead of a 
blessing." He addressed the saints with much pathos ; and, after 
expostulating powerfully with the wicked, he lifted up his voice and 
exclaimed, " Ground your arms ! — ground your arms ! — ground 
your arms ! ye rebels !" And such was the power which attended 
these words, that a trembling seized the assembly, and the place 



260 MEMOIRS OF 

became awful on account of the presence of God. When Elder 
Place had spoken about an hour, he ceased, and a few others ex- 
horted. Then again he appeared to be filled with the word of the 
Lord, spoke for half an hour, and his voice seemed to sound like 
the thunder of Sinai. His strength failed ; and as he rested, I in- 
vited sinners that felt their need of salvation, to come to the for- 
ward pews for prayer. Immediately nine came and fell on their 
knees. Some of them wept aloud, and others, joining them, fell 
on their knees, or kneeled in other parts of the assembly, till the 
number was increased to twenty-three. Many prayers were made 
in their behalf, and sOme prayed for themselves. Several of the 
preachers continued their supplications till their voices were hoarse ; 
and Elder Place pleaded with God for them, till he was quite ex- 
hausted, — went to a window and obtained a little breath, then he 
lifted up his voice and thanked God, and wept, and prayed again 
for sinners. The meeting continued till about midnight, and two 
or three professed to be converted. 

Monday, one o'clock, P. M. Several preachers, with myself,, 
met about one hundred and fifty people at the meeting house. I 
spoke a little more than an hour, on repentance and pardon ; some 
exhortations were given, and the exercises were attended with heav- 
enly power. At four o'clock, a discourse was preached by E der 
Benjamin S. Manson, from Mark 5:36 : " Be not afraid, only be- 
lieve." He spoke half an hour with much freedom ; then exhor- 
tations were given by Elders Pettingill, Smith, Plumb, Leavitt, 
Knowles, and some others. At half past six, the invitation was given 
to the awakened to come to the forward pews. The young people 
w r ere generally seated in the galleries ; and it was truly affecting to 
see many of them, in the pride of youth, leave their seats and come 
down weeping. Twenty-eight kneeled, and many fervent prayers 
were made for them. In the meantime, I observed the people 
leaning over the front of the galleries ; and as they looked on the 
anxious, their tears fell like drops of rain. Conviction now reach- 
ed the hearts of sinners in every part of the assembly ; and as 
they came to the seats of the heavy laden, some appeared scarce- 
ly able to stand ; fell down suddenly, and poured forth their grief 
like a flood. One young lady, while trying to reach the seats ap- 
propriated to those who desired prayer, lost her strength and sunk 
on her knees in the aisle. She wept exceedingly, and several 
prayed for her. She was then assisted to a forward pew T , where, 
with difficulty, she was kept from fainting. With her eyes lifted 
toward heaven, she prayed fervently about two hours, when the 
Lord spoke peace to her soul. A little after seven o'clock, about 
forty had bowed the knee ; their weeping was very great, and many 
of. them were praying for themselves. About sunset they arose, 



DAVID MARKS. 261 

were seated together, and ten of them spoke. Some confessed to 
their parents, or other relatives, and entreated them to forgive all 
the wrongs they had ever committed. Then all, as it were by 
common consent, again fell on their knees, and began to pray for 
themselves : many Christians engaged with them. When the light 
of day was gone, as the distress of the mourners continued, the 
meeting house was lighted. Soon the weeping increased exceed- 
ingly in every part of the congregation ; and unnumbered groans 
fell on our ears without cessation, and the place seemed more awful 
than any I had ever before seen. About fifty had bowed the knee ; 
many of whom were convulsed with anguish, as though the pangs 
of departing life had come upon them. Some, as their strength 
failed, were supported in the arms of their friends ; others, with 
great difficulty were kept from fainting, and some were doubtful 
whether they would live through the scene. The cries, " Lord 
have mercy ! — Lord have mercy ! — God be merciful to me a sin- 
ner ! — Lord save or I perish ! — I shall die ! — There is no mer^jr 
for me," &c, rolled successively upon our ears ; and it was believ- 
ed there was not a person in the assembly, that did not now feel 
the dreadful power of God ! Sisters, brothers, and friends, were 
seen falling into each other's arms, confessing their sins and invit- 
ing one another to go with them to heaven. Children were weep- 
ing at the feet of their parents, and parents were rejoicing over 
their children. 

Soon, with some, these agonizing pains suddenly subsided — they 
praised the Lord aloud, and one said, " I feel as though I should 
fly away to heaven." As soon as they were brought into liberty, 
they began to encourage those that were still in bondage, and to 
pray for their salvation. But this seemed only to increase their 
anguish. While L witnessed this scene, I exclaimed with myself, 
' O how awful is this place !' At half past nine o'clock, several 
had found comfort, and the weeping was considerably abated. Those 
who believed they had been converted since the meeting commenc- 
ed last evening, were invited to rise. Seventeen stood up rejoicing. 
Then the invitation was extended to all that had found some re- 
lief and comfort, and eight more arose. Thus twenty-five profess- 
ed to find relief in about twenty four-hours ; and it was believed 
that as many as that were truly converted. 

On Tuesday, at one o'clock, P. M., nearly two hundred assem- 
bled again at the meeting house. I spoke more than an hour, from 
Matt. 11:28 : " Come unto me, all ye that labor, and are heavy la- 
den, and I will give you rest." The Spirit of the Lord moved on 
the assembly, and it was easy preaching. Many exhortations were 
given, and great solemnity rested on the people. Twenty-five of 
the saints and twenty converts, spoke of the salvation of God. 



262 MEMOIRS OP 

Seventeen awakened sinners also spoke. Some said they were the 
chief of sinners — asked. their neighbors to forgive them, and near- 
ly all were greatly distressed. Several of these had not manifest- 
ed any seriousness till this time. Occasionally, such heart-rending 
groans and bitter cries burst from every part of the assembly, that 
it seemed as though the most hardened infidel could but feel and 
weep. At six o'clock, the penitent were again invited to come to 
the forward pews. Forty came and kneeled, and before we ceas- 
ed praying for them, the number was increased to fifty. Most of 
these prayed fervently for themselves. And O what agonies ! 
what bitter cryings ! what floods of tears, were poured out before 
the Lord ! Language fails to give a just description. At half 
past seven I endeavored to compose the assembly, and they gener- 
ally took their seats. Eleven then manifested, that since the last 
evening, they had obtained a hope in the Redeemer. Praise the 
Lord, O my soul, for the glory of this meeting. 

On Wednesday, at 3 o'clock, P. M., a larger number assembled 
than at any time before, since the Sabbath. As my late labors 
had reduced my strength, I thought to omit preaching, and exhort- 
ed the brethren to occupy the time. But as they seemed to with- 
hold, I finally spoke some over an hour, on a clause of Luke 6:48 : 
" And digged deep, and laid the foundation on a rock.' 9 After this 
more than twenty spoke ; some for the first time ; and several ap- 
peared to be in extreme distress for fear their all was lost. At 
the close of the meeting, fifty-three distinguished themselves as 
penitents, and when prayer was made for them, about three-fourths 
of the assembly fell on their knees. Three brethren prayed ; then 
some of the anxious spoke, with much grief, and earnestly request- 
ed us to remember them in our supplications. The mourners were 
exhorted to spend the evening in prayer, and the people dispersed 
a little before dark. I understood afterwards that two or three ob- 
tained a hope in this meeting also. As soon as the evening was 
come, we began to hear the voice of prayer from many directions, 
and the sound rung for miles over the hills of Lisbon. The air 
was clear, and the evening serene ; and even now its recollection 
melts my soul. O what bitter cries and groans were heard from 
every direction ! Some voices were heard for hours, till they grew 
hoarse and faint — then, suddenly, their tone was changed, and they 
praised the Lord. These supplications continued till midnight ; and 
next morning we understood a number were converted in differ- 
ent parts of the town. 

Thursday, at 3 o'clock, P. M., we assembled again, and rejoiced 
to find that several more, of whom we had not heard, had found 
peace since the meeting the day previous. The exercises were 
very solemn. Forty-eight mourners came and kneeled in the for- 



DAVID MARKS. 263 

ward pews, and a number of brethren and converts prayed for 
them. Many heavy laden souls prayed earnestly for themselves 
for two hours ; and in this time a number were delivered from the 
1 horrible pit' and brought to rejoice in the Lord. The cries of 
these broken-hearted sinners entered into the ears of some that had 
come as spectators. It sunk into their hearts— they felt that they 
must be born again— wept for their sins, and bowed the knee for 
the first time. Parents were searching among the anxious for their 
children ; and when they found them there, we heard them exclaim, 
" Glory to God ! there is my son ! there is my daughter !" Chil- 
dren also were rejoicing to see their parents join the anxious. Fre- 
quently one would lead a weeping relative along to the altar. At 
half past nine o'clock, the people dispersed ; and a young woman 
who had been a backslider, was overpowered by her distress, lost 
her strength, and fell into the care of her friends. Some spoke of 
calling for a physician ; but as she revived a little, she told them 
none but a physician from above could do her any good. She was 
carried to a neighboring house, where she recovered her strength 
about one o'clock in the morning. She confessed, that, at the com- 
mencement of the revival, she resolved that she would have no 
share in it, and said that now there was no mercy for her. After 
this, however, she found some relief.* 

On Saturday, at two o'clock, P. M., about three hundred people 
assembled at Lisbon in conference meeting. The interesting oc- 
currences of the former meetings were repeated, seventy three 
spoke, either of the goodness of God, or in confessing their 
sins, and a few professed to find comfort. Three related their ex- 
perience, and were received for baptism, and several others came 
forward for the same purpose ; but for want of time the meeting 
was adjourned till next morning. 

Sabbath morning, we assembled at eight o'clock ; and before ten, 
it was thought that seven hundred people had collected.! The 
whole time, till twelve o'clock, was occupied by the converts in re- 
lating their experience, and in receiving the fellowship of the 
church. After an intermission of forty minutes, I gave a discourse 
on 1 Tim. 6:12 : " Fight the good fight of faith ; lay hold on eter- 
nal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good 

* This young woman died a very triumphant death a few days afterwards. Ed. 

t Sabbath morning, just before the commencement of public worship, Mr. S. Beede, 
to whom reference has been made, handed Mr. Marks the following: 

" Morning^Thoughts. My Lord and my God, nearly one year has passed, since I 
vowed unto thee to go forward in the ordinance of baptism, whenever I should meet one 
of thy servants, who had been instrumental in my conversion, and could have the op- 
portunity of saying to him, as the eunuch said to Philip, "See here is water 5 what doth 
hinder me to be baptized ?" That opportunity is now presented for the first time, and, 
O Lord, how am I straitened. If I presume to go forward, it must be without much 
impressions of duty, as I have ever been obliged to go in thy cause. I am away from 
home and the enemy may take advantage, saying, it was done in secret, or in a corner. 



264 MEMOIRS OF 

profession before many witnesses." After this, the converts and 
brethren, followed by the assembly, walked half a mile in proces- 
sion, singing a baptismal hymn. Then I had the privilege of bap- 
tizing twenty-four, of whom thirteen were chiefly young men, and 
eleven young women. The greater part came out of the water 
praising the Lord. The scene was solemn and impressive, and 
many of the spectators wept. Twenty-one of these had been con- 
verted within the week past. After baptism the candidates joined 
hands, and in presence of the assembly, received the Bible for their 
law. I then gave them the right hand of fellowship : all kneeled 
on the bank, and we returned thanks to God. After a recess of an 
hour, we assembled again ; and many weighty testimonies were 
given by the converts and others. Those that had been baptized 
were greatly strengthened, and very happy ; others wept for hav- 
ing neglected this duty, and said they would be baptized the first 
opportunity. Several heavy laden sinners spoke with accents of 
melting anguish, and pleaded for our prayers. Though the house 
was nearly filled with people, yet there were few that did not ap- 
pear to feel the solemn presence of God. A little before the 
house was lighted, I was much affected at the appearance of the 
assembly. Nearly all, except those who were on their knees, sat 
leaning over the railing of the pews and wept profusely. About 
sixty inquirers kneeled in the forward pews, while many prayers 
were made for them ; and, indeed, nearly all prayed earnestly for 
themselves till seven were hopefully converted. About ten o'clock 
the meeting closed, and thirty-three of the anxious covenanted to 
kneel and pray three times a day for four weeks. 

But one week had elapsed since the revival commenced; and it 
had progressed with far more power and rapidity, than any I had 
ever before witnessed. O how wonderful and glorious were the 
manifestations of the grace of God ! The work was like a migh- 
ty wind, before which every thing gives way and falls to the earth. 
I understood that soon after the commencement of the revival, 
those who passed out of town, almost constantly met people that 
were going to Lisbon to see the marvelous work of God. Many a 
rebellious sinner, on entering the meeting, was immediately brought 
to tremble under the power of God. Indeed, it seemed that few 

Besides, it would cruelly grieve my tender parents and friends ; but, what is more than 
all the rest, my own unworthiness causes me to shrink and shudder at the thought of at- 
tempting the solemn act. Yet one of two things must be ; either I must say to brother 
David, under all these embarrassments, as did the eunuch to Philip, or I must violate the 
vow that I have made. I am straitened, I am distressed. Dear Lord, show me before 
the baptismal hour how I shall act most to thy glory, and thy servant shall acquiesce 
with a cheerful and willing mind. S. Beede. 

Third Sabbath in June, 1831." 

Mr. Beede finally decided to delay his baptism till he had another interview with his 
Quaker friends.-— Ed. 



DAVID MARKS. 265 

returned without conviction ; and there was less opposition than in 
any other revival I ever saw. In nearly every case that any one 
attempted to oppose, scarcely an hour passed before he was seen 
on his knees. Every class shared in the work, and the people did 
little else but go to meeting, read, pray, and attend to the great in- 
terests of their souls. Several were awakened by hearing the ex- 
perience of the converts ; and others, before they came to meet- 
ing, by hearing of the revival, and about fifty souls had already 
obtained a hope in Christ. Monday, June 20, duty called me to 
leave the town. The converts, the brethren, and the people, seemed 
dear to me as life. On the day before, they gave me a collection 
of about seventeen dollars, and we had bid them farewell. 

In the latter part of July we understood that in one month from 
the time the work commenced, one hundred and fifty had been 
converted ; and, including a few that were received as candidates, 
and were awaiting baptism the next Sabbath, one hundred had been 
baptized and added to the church in Lisbon. Also that the good 
work had spread into Franconia and LandafF, and was still pro- 
gressing wonderfully. By the reports presented at the Sandwich 
quarterly meeting, in the month of August, it appeared that one 
hundred and fifty had been added to the Lisbon church since the 
yearly meeting ; and a considerable number to one or two church- 
es in the adjacent towns. We likewise understood, that two hun- 
dred had been converted ; and that the glorious work continued 
with great power. 

Between the 20th of June and July 1st, I preached in Springfield, 
Wendell, Newport, Fishersfield, Bradford, Deering, Weare, Hop- 
kinton, Sanbornton, Gilmanton and Sandwich. In some of these 
meetings I felt " the burden of the word of the Lord," and deep 
impressions appeared to be made on the assemblies. I hope to 
meet some good fruits of them in glory. In Sandwich, a revival 
had commenced, which has since spread gloriously. 

From July 1 to the 20th of September, I spent in the southwest- 
ern part of Maine, and attended eighty meetings. Sometimes I 
labored under trials, and felt that " bonds and afflictions await 
ed me ;" but generally, through the grace of God, my peace was 
like the constant flow of a gentle river. Frequently I felt the 
Spirit of the Lord impressing me to preach against all the evils that 
affect the peace of Zion ; and sometimes my soul was enabled to 
rejoice exceedingly. For want of room, however, the particulars 
of only two of these meetings are given. 

A powerful revival followed a two days' meeting I attended in 
Fryburg, Sept, 10 and 11, at which much of the presence of God 
was enjoyed, and his word was like arrows in the hearts of sin- 
ners. 

23 



266 MEMOIRS OF 

Sept. 16, I preached in Limerick. After sermon, my friend, 
Samuel Beede, related an interesting experience, and desired to be 
baptized. He was received by the church ; we repaired to a beau- 
tiful stream, and it became my delightful duty to baptize him. He 
came out of the water praising the Lord, and went on his way re- 
joicing. Glory to God for the blessings of this day. May God 
preserve him and me, and all saints blameless, to the coming of 
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Amen. 

A little previous to Mr. Beede's baptism, he wrote to Mr. Marks 
a brief sketch of his religious exercises after his conversion, some 
extracts from which, for reasons already mentioned, it is thought 
will not be deemed foreign to this work. 

Sandwich, Aug. 1831. 
Dear Brother, 

Directly after the interview I had with you after the General 
Conference in 1828, I commenced, as you advised me, striving to 
know and walk in the good and perfect way, carefully studying the 
Scriptures, endeavoring to find and follow the precepts and exam- 
ple of Jesus. I usually read a portion of the New Testament 
every day, as it came in course, for a devotional exercise, medita- 
tion, and instruction. Soon my mind was led to add still another 
method of studying the Bible doctrine ; which was, with the help 
of the Concordance, to search for the Scripture testimony on par- 
ticular subjects, or points of doctrine, and arrange all the passages 
relative to those points in such a manner that I could at once ex- 
amine all that the Scripture says on the subject both for and 
against ; and then I applied myself with careful study and medita- 
tion, and with a prayerful heart to be enlightened into an under- 
standing of the word, as the Holy Ghost intended it. In doing 
this, my soul has been blessed with joy unspeakable, that makes 
me willing to forego all earthly considerations, that I may gain 
experimentally a knowledge of God, and his ways, and his will 
concerning me. In connection with the above exercises, I have 
also been constrained to practice much secret devotion, to attend 
meetings very constantly, and converse much with mourners and 
converts ; and also to endeavor to become established in practical 
holiness, so as to render righteous ways as natural and righteous 
actions as habitual to me as the deeds of unrighteousness formerly 
were. In the meantime, I have not neglected to cultivate an ac- 
quaintance with the Free-will Baptists, who have been nearer to 
me than any other people, or even my nearest kindred according to 
the flesh. * * * * 

As to public speaking, I have expected and do expect that the 
Lord will give me something to do. There is no exercise of the 



DAVID MARKS. 267 

human faculties that ever so delighted me from a child to this day, 
as that of preaching, and none in which I ever thought I should 
be so happy, as in being a herald for Jesus, a proclaimer of the 
everlasting gospel. But latterly, when I have contemplated the 
state of my health — my lungs subject to almost perpetual inflam- 
mation through very small degrees of exposure — and my nervous 
system so broken to pieces, as for a great part of the time to par- 
alyze all the energies of moral, mental, and bodily action, I have 
concluded the Lord had designed me to act in some other sphere 
of usefulness to his creatures, than in public speaking. Then again, 
when I have meditated on the provisions of the glorious gospel, 
and have seen the deplorable state of perishing sinners, dying ! 
— dying ! — dying ! — with a rich and ample feast spread at their 
door, and urging admittance — then when I have had a view of the 
infinite — the infinitely infinite — mercies of God to me, in having 
mercy on so poor, wicked, undone, and blasphemous a wretch as 
myself — O wretch that I am ! have I exclaimed ; most merciful 
Lord God, shall I reason thus ? Shall I decline using my shatter- 
ed faculties in thy service, merely because their better days and 
more vigorous exertion have been spent in the service of satan ? 
O ! no. " Here am I, send me," for if my powers are half of them 
lost, it is no reason that I should not spend the rest in thy service, 
in warning such poor wretches as I once was, and — but for the 
mercy of Infinite Love — am now. Sometimes when I have seen 
the leaders of the people, who ought to be fathers in Zion, dealing 
out to the young shepherds, and the tender lambs, instead of the 
bread of life, poison ! poison ! poison ! — and shall I say damna- 
ble heresies ? — when I have seen these things, my spirit has been 
stirred within me, sleep has departed from my eyes ; and could the 
briny pillows speak they would bear witness to the nightly sorrows 
of my soul. Then I have queried, can I ever content myself to 
labor with the dumb and unfeeling language of the pen, while oth- 
ers are engaged in the open field ? No — my heart has said, rath- 
er let me be placed in the front of the battle — in view of the ene- 
my, where I can come in open contact, and openly oppose him in 
defence of precious souls. Sometimes I have longed to become a 
member of the Free-will Baptist denomination and labor with all 
my powers, and wear out my life in defence of the gospel. * * 
Your brother in tribulation, 

Samuel Beede. 



268 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER XXIV. 

Particulars of Mr. Marks' labors, sickness, fyc. together with ex- 
tracts from his correspondence from the close of his "Nar- 
rative" as published by himself September 1831, to October 
1832. 

The preceding chapters contain, in an abridged form, the narra- 
tive of Mr. Marks' labors, as published by himself in the year 
1831. For a few months afterwards, he generally kept a regular 
journal ; but as he has recorded nothing of the causes which di- 
rected his subsequent course, it is deemed proper to state them 
briefly, before resuming the thread of the narrative ; also to intro- 
duce frequent explanatory paragraphs, together with extracts from 
his correspondence, in connection with his journal. 

At this period, Free-will Baptists, as a denomination, had engag- 
ed in but few of those benevolent enterprises which distinguish the 
operations of the church in the present day, and which have so 
greatly enlarged the sphere of her usefulness. The Morning Star, 
however, (which had been published since 1826 by a company of 
brethren at Limerick, Me. under the patronage of the denomina- 
tion and devoted to its interests,) advocated gospel order, temperance, 
missions, Sabbath schools, education, and improvement generally; and 
there were many ministers and others in different parts of the con- 
nexion who were warm friends of these causes, and were laboring for 
their promotion. The subj ect of these Memoirs, hitherto seems to have 
had his mind mostly engrossed with one idea — the immediate con- 
version of souls ; and for the attainment of this object, he had di- 
rected his whole studies and energies. His mind had now become 
painfully exercised with the state of the denomination to which he 
was in sentiment and in heart much attached. His extensive trav- 
els and labors had given him an opportunity to see that something 
must be done efficiently and immediately, or the denomination would 
be rent asunder by many schisms. Inaction in the cause of mis- 
sions, education, support of the ministry, &c. had opened the way 
for the introduction of many evils, disheartened some of the most 
talented and intelligent ministers, and prevented the union of ma- 
ny with the denomination, who had been converted under the la- 
bors of its faithful preachers. Indeed, he had seen a great share 
of the fruits of his own toils, from the above named causes, gath- 
ered into other churches of dissimilar sentiments. False ideas on 
fundamental points of faith were also exerting an influence. In a 
few sections, Unitarian views of the character of Christ and the 



DAVID MARKS. 269 

doctrine of the annihilation of the wicked had obtained place in the 
minds of some through the preaching of Elias Smith, not far from 
the time of the rise of the sect called Christians* Mr. Smith was 
refused admission into the Free-will Baptist denomination, on ac- 
count of his sentiments. 

Although Mr. Marks was deprived of early literary privileges, 
as the reader of the preceding pages has seen, the absence of 
educational advantages was, in his case, in a measure, compensated 
by an unusual activity of mind, and a plodding perseverance, which 
would not yield to obstacles. Still he was ever a close Biblical 
student, and to this, no doubt, with the Divine blessing, is to be at- 
tributed his great success in winning souls. He had committed to 
memory the writings of the four Evangelists, Acts and Eomans, 
and so ready and retentive was his memory, that, if a passage was 
named in either of these books, he could in a moment tell the chap- 
ter and verse, or if any particular chapter or verse was called for, 
he could instantly repeat it. He had also, without an instructor, 
and mostly while walking or riding, become well acquainted with 
several English branches, and had acquired sufficient knowledge of 
Greek to read in the New Testament with the aid of a lexicon. 
Highly as he valued knowledge, and diligent as he was in its ac- 
quisition, still he had not been much awake to the importance of a 
thoroughly educated ministry. Engaged constantly in preaching 
himself, he seldom listened to a sermon, and was little aware to what 
an extent study was neglected among Free-will Baptist ministers.. 
Grieved by the little spirituality and success that attended the labors 
of most of those he had known who had pursued the usual course of 
study in our Theological schools, he had imbibed the impression 
that their course of discipline had a tendency to destroy spirituali- 
ty instead of increasing it, and for a time he had prejudice against 
such institutions. 

The subject of missions had engaged little of his attention. Not 
that the conversion of the world was not an object for which at any 
time he would have laid down his life, but the slanders of the en- 
emies of missions repeated to him by Christians, produced an ap- 
pathy in his mind on this subject. Consequently he had interest- 
ed himself little in reading the reports of missionary operations. 
The temperance cause had his sympathies from its commence- 
ment. 

After his mind became painfully anxious about the state of his 
beloved people, he used often to unbosom his feelings to his friend, 
S. Beede, who, instead of trying to console him with a hope of a 
better state of things, set himself to present existing evils in a still 
stronger light, till sometimes Mr. Marks' agony of soul was almost 
overpowering. But his was a spirit that could not sink under dif- 
23* 



270 MEMOIES OF 

Acuities, nor give up in despair. He set himself to study careful- 
ly the cause of the evils and their remedy. Thus was his mind 
prepared to examine, with careful attention, several articles that 
appeared about this time in the Morning Star on the establishment 
of a " Book Concern," the first of which was written by Mr. 
William Burr. These much interested him, particularly several 

anonymous communications, signed B n.* He thought he 

saw in a well regulated Book Concern, a bond that would tend to 
unite the denomination, and would afford an antidote to many 
evils. This subject he often discussed with Mr. Beede, and final- 
ly they, with others, matured a plan which they thought would suc- 
ceed, provided they could gain the approbation of the General 
Conference, which was to meet in a few days. 

The following is a continuation of Mr. Marks' journal, in an 
abridged form, from the closing date of the preceding chapter. 

"September 17 and 18, I attended the Maine Western yearly 
meeting in Buxton. Fifteen ordained ministers were present and 
several hundred people more than could be convened in the meet- 
ing house. I preached twice during the session. My mind was 
made very solemn by the news that the Indian cholera, the over- 
flowing scourge that had swept through the old world, had entered 
New Brunswick. I endeavored in my preaching to improve these 
tidings to the good of souls. The assembly seemed much affected. 
I next went to Sandwich, N. H. to attend a " four days' meeting," 
which by request I had appointed three months before. I preach- 
ed in Ossipee by the way. Several came forward for prayer, and 
one young lady promised to seek the Lord till she found him. Sev- 
eral ministers attended the meeting in Sandwich, some of whom 
preached during its progress. On the Sabbath, twelve or fifteen 
hundred people attended, and great solemnity rested on the assem- 
bly. A number came forward to manifest that they were decided 
to attend to the salvation of their souls. Sabbath evening, I 
preached in Ossipee, and found the young lady who made a cov- 
enant to seek the Lord indulging a joyful hope. Several present- 
ed themselves for prayer, and a little boy following me out of the 
house, weeping, gave me his hand and said, " Will you pray for 
me?" 

The fourth session of the General Conference, to be held in 
Wilton, Me. was drawing near. Having been appointed a del- 
egate by the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, Monday, Sept. 26, 
I commenced journeying in that direction, accompanied by my 

* These articles were written by S. Beede at the solicitation of Mr. Burr, but no oth- 
er person knew the author till the hour Mr. Beede was dying. Mr. Burr then reveal- 
ed it, feeling that he was absolved from the injunction of secrecy Mr. Beede laid upon 
him. 



DAVID MARKS. 27 1 

companion, having appointments by the way previously notified. 
During the seven days ensuing, I held meetings in Limerick, Port- 
land, Brunswick, Topsham, Gardiner, and several other towns. In 
Topsham, I was filled with sorrow and weeping for perishing sin- 
ners. After facing for about fifty miles one of the severest storms 
of rain and sleet I ever knew, I arrived in Wilton, Oct. 12. 
Col. Charles Morse had made provision to entertain all the mem- 
bers of the Conference at his own expense, and had furnished a 
large chamber for convening its sessions, so that the meeting house 
might be free for public worship." 

The business of the Conference was conducted with much har- 
mony. A question was proposed from the Holland Purchase year- 
ly meeting, inquiring, " What do Free-will Baptists believe to be 
the Scripture doctrine with regard to the character and offices of 
Christ ?" H. Hobbs, S. Beede, and D. Marks were appointed 
a committee to prepare a reply. S. Beede drafted a very able ar- 
ticle, showing that Christ was " God manifest in the flesh," that he 
was "the true God and eternal life," which perfectly accorded 
with the views of the other members of the committee. The re- 
port was received unanimously by the Conference. 

The subject of a " Book Concern" was presented and referred 
to a committee of three, viz. E. Place, D. Marks, and S. Beede, 
who made the following report, which passed the Conference : 

" Agreed, that in our opinion, the establishment of a Book Con- 
cern on a scale sufficiently extensive to answer the demands of our 
connexion for books is desirable. And we believe that such an es- 
tablishment, suitably encouraged and supported, would contribute 
as much to usefulness in our churches, and aid as much in spread- 
ing Christian knowledge in the world, as any other single course 
of measures that we can, under the present circumstances, pursue. 
But as we know of no advisable means, whereby we can at present 
furnish ourselves with funds that would be necessary to commence 
the establishment on a large scale, we think it proper to appoint 
some brother a Book Agent, to officiate and act for us till the next 
General Conference ; and that said agent publish for the Conference 
such books as they may direct, and hold himself responsible to the 
Conference for his doings ; and also be responsible for all con- 
tracts made by him relative to publishing books ; and that he be 
authorized to take the necessary and prudent measures for selling 
such books as may be published ; and at the next Conference pre- 
sent a full report of his doings, and the circumstances of the Book 
Concern intrusted to his charge." See Minutes of fifth General 
Conference, page 8. 

Mr. Marks was then chosen Book Agent, and H. Hobbs, S. 
Beede, and Wm. Burr, a " Publishing and Advisory Committee 



272 MEMOIRS OF 

on the Book Concern and book agency, with instructions to direct 
the Book Agent to publish for and on behalf of the Conference, 
such books as they may deem it suitable and expedient to be so 
published, and to advise with him relative to the sales." 

The following reference to this subject was made in the circular. 

"Having taken the subject of a Book Concern into consideration, 
we are of the opinion that an establishment of this kind would be 
very useful to our connexion. And as no ready means appeared 
whereby we might obtain funds to commence on a very extensive 
scale, we have thought proper to appoint a Publishing Committee, 
to select and direct the publication of such books as they may think 
suitable and necessary. We have also appointed a Book Agent to 
publish for the Conference such books as the Publishing Commit- 
tee shall direct, and, with the advice of the committee, to sell them, 
and account to the Conference for all the profits that may arise 
from the sales. 

After consulting men who are experienced in book business, we 
have thought, that a Book Concern, begun in this small way, and 
extended as the profits arising from sales should furnish means, 
might be as likely to succeed, and eventually arise to its desired 
usefulness, as it would be, if we should depend on obtaining dona- 
tions from our brethren for its first establishment. We can but 
hope, therefore, that our brethren will use their influence to en- 
courage and support our first humble attempts at a Book Concern." 
See Minutes, page 11. 

Mr. Marks entered immediately upon the duties of his new of- 
fice, but did not in the meantime intermit in the least his labors in 
preaching and visiting the churches, as his journal will show ; on 
the contrary, he diligently improved these opportunities in creating 
an interest in the important enterprise in which he had just en- 
gaged. He opened an extensive correspondence with leading indi- 
viduals in every part of the denomination, and sought out channels 
whereby every church might be supplied with the productions is- 
suing from the Book Concern. To this end he appointed assistant 
agents in every section, to whom books might be sent. A few small 
works were immediately issued. As no one hymn book had ob- 
tained general use in the denomination, there seemed a loud call 
for one embodying such sentiments as were congenial with its views, 
and worthy of general patronage. Accordingly, it was decided by 
the Publishing Committee and Agent, that such a book should be 
prepared, and the work of preparation was assigned to S. Beede. 
As its publication could not be effected on credit, and was going to 
involve considerable expense, a prospectus was issued for obtaining 
subscribers. 



DAVID MARKS. 273 

It may be proper to state that Mr. Marks had had some expe- 
rience in publishing books. The contributions of friends falling far 
short of meeting his travelling expenses, and being compelled to 
do something to supply this deficiency, he resorted to the publica- 
tion of religious books, as this business, besides furnishing him with 
means for travelling, aided him in the great work of spreading re- 
ligious knowledge. The principal works he had published, were, 
Life of John Colby, Buzzell's hymn book, and a Conference Meet- 
ing hymn book, compiled by himself. They were printed in Roch- 
ester, N. Y. Seventeen thousand copies of his Conference Meeting 
hymn book were sold. 

The following are extracts from his journal continued from the 
time of the Conference. 

" Meetings of worship had been held through the sessions of 
the Conference, which continued till Saturday noon, September 1 6. 
I preached in the afternoon with considerable freedom, and in the 
evening, spoke again at a village a few miles distant. On the Sab- 
bath, such crowds assembled from different towns that they were 
obliged to convene in two places. It fell to my lot to preach at 
one in the forenoon and at the other in the afternoon. It pleased 
the Lord to give me more than usual liberty, and the assemblies 
were much impressed. Scores of souls had been recently conver- 
ted in Wilton, so that there was not that opportunity for the spread 
of a revival that there had been. Still signs of good were mani- 
fest, and anxious inquirers presented themselves for prayer. Mon- 
day, after preaching again, I left Wilton to attend the first session 
of the Wolfborough quarterly meeting to meet October 23, at Os- 
sipee, N. H. and held meetings by the way in Windham, Buxton, 
and Limerick. Saturday evening, I gave a discourse at the quar- 
terly meeting, and named various things which my views of duty 
compelled me to preach against. Among these was Free Masonry. 
After meeting Dr. C. asked me, if I knew anything about Free 
Masonry. I told him I did. He asked, " How ?" I said, " By the 
testimony of many thousands of seceding masons." He replied, 
" You know nothing about it." I asked him if he knew there was 
such a city as New York. He answered, " They say there is." 
" But," I inquired, " do you know there is ?" " No," was his re- 
ply. Then I said ; " If I know nothing about Masonry, people do 
not know any thing except what they have seen with their eyes, 
and none but such as have been to New York, London, or Paris, 
know that there are such cities. What an ignorant world this 
must be, if knowledge has the limits which the masonic fraternity- 
would fain make many believe. Sir, did you ever see a man steal ? 
Should you hear me preach against theft, adultery or murder, 
would you admonish me and say, " Preach against those things 



274 MEMOIRS OF 

you know ?" He asked, " What has the gospel to do with Free 
Masonry ?" I answered, " It has nothing to do with it, neither with 
other abominations, except that it is revealed against all unrighte- 
ousness of men, therefore I preach against Free Masonry as I do 
against other sins." He replied, " Preaching against Free Mason- 
ry is preaching up for Clay, and you had better be preaching the 
gospel." 

After holding meetings in Ossipee and Wakefield, October 27, 
I went to the village of Great Falls, where I had an appointment, 
but found it had not been notified. I was informed that as there 
was a great excitement among the Masons, on account of my 
preaching against Free Masonry in this place the spring previous, 
the minister, who was a Mason, and the male members of the Free- 
will Baptist church, thought it not expedient for me to preach with 
them. This was said to be the first instance in which a Free-will 
Baptist church had closed its doors against a minister of the gos- 
pel, though the denomination had been in existence about fifty 
years." 

Shortly after this, Mr. Marks received a very excellent letter 
from his friend Beede in reference to this affair, designed to 
strengthen him in his warfare with iniquity in high places, from 
which the following is an extract. 

" I was pleased with hearing of your welfare and prosperity in 
the truth; and not in any small degree was I rejoiced at the intel- 
ligence of your success at the Great Falls — not by any means that 
I rejoice in iniquity, but knowing that the whole world lieth in 
wickedness, I am consoled with the thought that some of the Lord's 
servants are yet willing to hold up the standard of righteousness 
and proclaim the unmixed gospel of Jesus to perishing mortals. 
Christ said of the wicked, they have hated me, and they will hate 
you. Whatever minister of Jesus will dare rightly to divide the 
word of truth, and preach Bible doctrine, as did the prophets, 
Christ, and his apostles, will surely meet with opposition from un- 
Christlike professors, and from those who love darkness rather than 
light, because their deeds are evil. This is a necessary conse- 
quence ; for God and satan are at enmity, and so must their chil- 
dren be. There can be no greater delusion than to suppose that 
Christians can earnestly contend for the faith once delivered to the 
saints, and at the same time preserve peace and friendship with the 
devil and his children. Such preachers as im-Christlike profes- 
ors applaud, and lovers of pleasure admire, such as satan is at peace 
with, such as his servants have not open hostility with, have full 
reason to suspect that they possess more the nature of the minis- 
ters of satan in disguise than of the true ministers of Jesus. My 
dear brother David, for more than three years my humble prayer 



DAVID MARKS. 275 

to the Lord lias been that he may enable yon to understand, to 
practice, and to preach the pure gospel of Christ ; and that his 
temper, his manner, and his example may be your undivided pat- 
tern of life and conduct in all cases, times, and occasions. This 
being the case, the world cannot be at peace with you ; for it could 
not with Jesus, and never can it be any more at peace with his fol- 
lowers than with him. If you follow the Savior, wicked men and 
devils will hate you still more — the division between you and them 
will be still wider, and the opposition and persecution you will ex- 
perience from them will be more severe than you have yet received. 
May God give you wisdom, strengthen, and establish you in every 
good work. * * * * Farewell. 

Your unworthy brother in tribulation, 

Samuel Beede." 

Mr. Marks, in his public labors, neither courted controversy nor 
opposition. He greatly loved the good opinion of his brethren, 
but he loved the interests of Christ's kingdom far better, and when 
he thought these demanded his testimony, he knew nothing of that 
cautious prudence that dreads saying aught, lest he should be ex- 
posed to censure. In such cases, he was always courageous and li- 
on-hearted ; at the same time there were often blended a gentle 
tenderness and affectionate manner that rendered his severe and 
pointed rebukes of sin very effective. 

Journal. " After preaching in Dover, I attended a " three days' 
meeting" at Strafford, in Elder Place's congregation, commencing 
Friday, October 29. It was a season of great power. More than 
forty came forward for prayer, and some were converted. Among 
these was a son of Elder John Buzzell ; he was very happy. On 
the Sabbath, the congregation consisted of about eight hundred and 
fifty persons : of these seven hundred and Mtj arose to manifest 
that they were professors of religion. Oct. 31, Leaving Straf- 
ford, I met appointments daily for four days. In this time, I had 
a very pleasant interview with my friend D. P. Cilley, in Notting- 
ham. I believe the Lord is calling him into his vineyard, though 
he is hardly willing to acknowledge it. I had a close and faithful 
talk with him. 

Friday, Nov. 4, 1831. This day closes the twenty-sixth year of 
my life. O how many favors has the Lord shown his poor servant ! 
I spent this day and the following at Raymond, at a " three days' 
meeting." A brother was ordained, and it fell to my lot to preach 
on the occasion. My subject was the duty of a bishop. Sabbath, 
I preached twice in Dover, and in the evening at the Great Falls. 
The meeting house being still closed, the meeting was held in a 
large brick school house, which was filled to overflowing and many 
went away because they could not get a place to stand within. I 



276 MEMOIRS OF 

spoke on the cross of Christ with much freedom. Although some 
appeared contentious and uneasy at first, soon they paid good at- 
tention. I understood, afterwards, that a mob was at the meeting 
in readiness and determined to attack me, provided I said anything 
against Free Masonry. It so happened that my mind was not led 
at all to that subject. 

Monday, Nov. 7. Setting out on a line of appointments to Rhode 
Island, I met congregations in New Market and Exeter. In the 
latter place, on a beautiful green, the great and good Whitefield 
preached his last sermon the day before his death. To me it seem- 
ed a consecrated spot. The next day I preached in Danville and 
Haverhill, Wednesday evening in the Methodist chapel in Lowell, 
the next evening in the Methodist chapel in Boston, and the day 
following in Rehoboth and Attleborough, Mass. During the ensu- 
ing eight days, I preached twelve sermons among the Rhode Island 
churches, and often felt the power of God. Two churches, one in 
Providence, the other in North Providence, which had formerly 
received me very kindly, closed their doors against me on account 
of my opposition to Free Masonry. These churches had Free- 
will Baptist ministers for pastors, but did not belong to any denom- 
ination. I went out into the street before the houses of the minis- 
ters by whose consent the doors of these churches had been closed, 
and according to the Scripture direction, wiped off the dust of my 
feet for a testimony against them. Having done this, I left those 
places enjoying great peace. 

Monday, Nov. 21, we rode through the length of the island of R. 
Island, a distance of 1 2 miles, and were delighted with the beautiful 
order of the roads, farms, fences, &c. About two hundred years had 
passed since this island was first settled, and the general appear- 
ance of the farms surpassed any I had before seen. In the even- 
ing, I preached to a large and attentive assembly in Newport, and 
the next day left the island in a sail boat. There being a heavy 
gale, the sea was very rough, and the crossing dangerous. In the 
evening, I met an assembly in Pawtucket, and the next evening- 
heard a very interesting sermon in Park street church in Boston, 
from the celebrated revivalist, Mr. C. G. Finney, a Presbyterian 
minister from New York. His text was, " I knew thee that thou 
wast a hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering 
where thou hast not strewed." He preached a free salvation, and 
the freedom of the human will as strongly as any Free-will Bap- 
tist I ever heard. Blessed be God, the popular orders are coming 
to our aid. 

Passing through Newburyport and Portsmouth, I attended three 
days at a protracted meeting in Kittery, Me. in accordance with a 
previous engagement, and preached six sermons. The Lord bless- 



DAVID MARKS* 277 

ed the meeting, and made it a precious season. Between twenty 
and thirty anxious souls came forward for prayer, and several pro- 
fessed to find peace in believing. Tuesday, Nov. 29, I attended a 
meeting at Great Falls. The Free-will Baptist meeting house 
was still closed against me, unless I would promise that I would 
not preach against Masonry, or any thing else that would " disturb 
the harmony of society." So I preached again in the school house 
to a crowded assembly with great freedom. The season was very 
impressive. I understood a great part of the Free-will Baptist 
church was present, and that they were much tried because the 
house of worship was not opened. Many, weeping, gave me their 
hands. The day following, I went to Rochester, where I under- 
stood the Methodist house was closed on account of my testimony 
against Free Masonry. The court house, however, was opened, 
and the people heard the word attentively. A revival was pro- 
gressing. During the remainder of the week, I met five appoint- 
ments in Lebanon, Farmington, Alton Bay, and Meredith. In 
these meetings several were awakened. Passing through New 
Durham, we saw an old meeting house, which we were informed 
was the first ever under the control of Free-will Baptists. It was 
built originally for the Congregationalists, but as nearly all the peo- 
ple became Free-will Baptists, it fell to them. 

December 4, we rode ten miles in a tedious snow storm to Hol- 
derness, where I preached three sermons. The next day, I was 
suddenly seized with an ague fit, and was immediately confined to 
the bed. I had from one to two appointments each day for many 
weeks to come, but there was no alternative. I was -obliged to 
yield to sickness, and was confined to my bed for six days with a 
severe influenza, and endured much physical suffering. My com- 
panion was also sick with the same disease. The brethren in Hol- 
derness were very kind, and did many things for us gladly. When 
Sabbath, Dec. 11, came, my soul was so full that it seemed as if I 
could not be denied the privilege of preaching. Accordingly, a 
meeting was notified at the house ; but after I had spoken about 
fifteen minutes, my strength so failed that I was glad to take the 
bed. Reluctant to disappoint any congregation that I could meet, 
we left Holderness in a covered sleigh, the Tuesday following, 
contrary to the remonstrances of kind friends, and were enabled, 
without apparent injury, to reach my appointment the ensuing Sab- 
bath in Hollis, near Portland, Me. I had been obliged to disap- 
point thirteen assemblies. The next evening I commenced preach- 
ing to a congregation in Waterborough ; but after speaking a few 
minutes was so feeble that I was obliged to leave the meeting and 
take the bed. The day following, however, I met with the Pub- 
lishing Committee in Limerick, and, during the week, attended four 
24 






278 MKMOII 

appointments. My fricnda in Limerick and vicinity received me 
with unusual joy, having heard that I was dead An individual 
circulated the report, Baying that he ;» . j t.< d in preparing my body 
for the coffin, and Elder Place preached my funeral sermon. The 
M;i on , I uriderfttood, received the news with great joy. Jiuf, 
thank God, I Jive, and through grace I hope to injure the kingdom 
of darkness 'ill more- 
Sabbath, DeCi 18, I attended a v<-,ry inlcrcnting church confer- 
ence in Parsontfleld. Elder John Buzzell itated that he had been 

In the town more than thirty years, and in the time had witnessed 

in if eleven revi vals — i hat several churches (I think seven) had 
been set off from this, and till their number was two hundred and 
even, every one of* whom was in good standing in the church* 
My appointment* now called me toward Li bon, in the north pwt 
of New Hampshire} where I had allotted to myself the, first week 
in January for rest The rumor of my death preceded me, and hi 
some places people seemed almost frightened, and gazed upon me 
as though they were actually looking upon one, that had 
from the dead. Large congregations, however, generally conven- 
ed, and in one, Instance, friends came the distance of twenty miles 
jo a certain whether I was still living. The travelling * 

sively tedious, as a vejy deep -now had fallen, and the roads were 

Little broken, yet we, were enabled to reach Lisbon in safety. 

Sabbath, Jan. L, 18.">2. Thanks be to God for the preservation 
of our lives through another year. How quickly has it j>;> edl 

O, what have I done, for God) Of how little use have, been my 

u -ehle efforts, compared fo what, they might have been, had I loved 
God with ;ill my heart, and used " all diligence." Now another 
year has begun. J low shall l spend it, should it please my Heav- 
enly Father to spare my life? Lord, help me to devote every mo- 
ment to thee,, and with an undivided heart submit myself entirely, 

SOUl, body, and spirit, t0 thy most, holy work. I Jo thou, O my 

blei ed Master, teach me and help me to win looh to thee and 

thee only, Amen. The meeting house in Lisbon was this day 

crowded to overflowing; and the Lord gave me a n to the 

people. Since the commencement of the revival in June, preced- 
ing, more than two hundred had united with the church, and the 
work had spread into the adjacent towns, till it was thought that 

five, hundred bad "passer! from death unto life." Ahout the mid- 
tile of this week, not having fully recovered frommysickne ! 
took a violent cold from sleeping in damp sheets, and for the first 
time vv;t attacked with rheumatism. As exerci prescribed 

for an antidote, ' passed the remainder of the week in usual activ- 
ity, preaching some, and visiting some. 

Sabbath, Jan. 8, my appointments for two months commenced, 



DAVID HAP 

extending through the math-east and vast part of New If 

and a part of Main* three ■ -bon, 

and thence down through Vermor. - 9qgl my 

Iwmm rery lerere, yet c .y.---' ■■■■. having been Pimrtjnflj prescrib- 
ed as the best rennet/. I nid^M to endeavor to ai 

'".hung m a chair. Mike more than an hoar to atari dred 

peopl bretbira then accompanied rne to Bath, fifteen miles. 

\ ill that it seemed to rne I conld not sit ■§ but 

J assent 
bouse of worshi; minutes, 

they I finally assen* being set 

down, preached an hoar wv ,Iemn feeftnp 

I was laid upon a bed, and it v 

I should ; 
matic fever had fastened on my system, and far six days I was en- 
tirely helpless ; some of the time unable to nv a finger. 
Until now I ha/I never known pain. The least movement produced 
.dating distress, si I coald not lie long m one 
position without faintir ; ime it took six or se 
take care of rne. Finally, by keeping my system in a state or 
slant perspiration, and the use of i>r. J 

*aroed myself in bed. I 
amended so rapi* in three 

more I walked a few steps, and hi t reached 

quarters of an hoi. onsiderable number who asset 

room. In thfo sickae*-- est consolatK 

21, I AS* ebed, si 

nearly an hoar. BaHw 1 assenv 

Swif: day, afx 

from my first confinement. I accompanied t bon, 

arne to assist me in return!; Daring 

I attended three meetings, and or. 
ordination sermon. The time for my appointm ents, leading from 
Lisbon throng ad now come ; hot, beir^ 

journey ai . daily. I engaged a minister to g\ 

eight days, and in the rnea pointmer 

Thin;-: !rh was now as mneh 

recovered that with care and prndenee I conk 
the interests of the infant Book Concern loodly demand! 
again renamed travelling, acco mpani ed by 
panion, and taking with me a to wait apon rne. On this 

day, though the road was hilly fh hule broken, we 



280 MEMOIRS OF 

rode forty miles, and I preached at evening, and next day spoke to 
two congregations without fatigue. Thursday evening, I preached 
in Washington in a cold house, though I had taken the precaution 
to request that it be well warmed. During my sermon I was seiz- 
ed with chills. I soon felt a return of rheumatic pains, and passed 
the night in distress. The next day, I rode twenty miles to Col. 
Arnold's in Randolph, and preached at evening. Saturday and 
Sabbath, I preached in the same place, when my complaint so re- 
turned upon me that I was again confined to my bed. I now 
recalled my appointments, and determined to give out no more till 
my health became more firm. The use of Dr. Jenning's bath 
again relieved me from pain, and while I was indulging hopes of a 
speedy recovery, suddenly my mind became confused, my memory 
was gone, and soon I was insensible. When I was again conscious, 
I saw that my room was full of people who were weeping. I con- 
cluded that I had been deranged, and had now recovered my senses 
just before I was to die. Recognizing my companion, who was 
standing by me, pale and trembling, I obtained from her a promise 
that she would trust in the Lord, and took my leave of her, expect- 
ing in a few moments to be in the " spirit-land." The query now 
rushed upon me, ' how have I spent my time since I was called in- 
to the ministry T l Have I done the work of the Lord faithfully ?' 
Instantly, my testimony against Free Masonry, for which I had 
suffered most, and then my whole life passed in review before me ; 
and, O the sweet peace, the heavenly rapture, that ravished my 
soul. My blessed Lord was my witness that I had never failed to 
preach a sermon, that I thought was my duty to preach, neither 
shunned to declare his counsel against every thing that affected the 
welfare of souls, however contrary it had been to the feelings of my 
dear brethren. Looking out of the window, the snow-white fields 
of Vermont seemed to blaze with the glory of God, and my tongue 
was unloosed to declare his amazing goodness. Some present, who 
doubted the reality of religion, I understood, had their hearts 
touched. In half an hour, however, I was as well as before this 
attack, and from this time gained rapidly. As in other places 
where I had been sick, so in this place, Christian friends seemed to 
know no weariness in their kind attentions. How often has God 
verified to me the promise, " He that hath left house, or home, or 

brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother for my name's sake, 

shall receive a hundred fold in this life." 

About this time Mr. Marks received a letter from Mr. Beede, 
his ever watchful friend, partly on the subject of health, which 
awakened his attention somewhat to the study of physiology. He 
wrote : 



DAVID MARKS. 281 

Dear Brother, 

* * * * jt rejoices me to hear of your improved 
state of health. Previous to your last communication, much anxi- 
ety had been indulged in regard to your recovery, which is now 
measurably relieved. I thank the Lord for his unmerited kindness 
in raising you up again for a help to Zion. That a life of useful- 
ness may be long continued to you, has been my earnest desire, 
especially as the church is in so much need of your labors. With 
a view to this, I have wished that you might be relieved from the 
corpulent habit of body to which you have been considerably in- 
clined. If no exuberancy of flesh were attached to your system, 
you would be less liable to disease, not so susceptible of fatigue 
through your labors, nor so much disposed to premature decay of 
the constitution. Obesity may readily be reduced without endan- 
gering health. It only requires a regular systematic regimen in 
diet, sleep, and exercise. Very sparing indulgence in meats, drinks, 
and sleep, with much exercise, will seldom fail to reduce effectu- 
ally the most corpulent, and will secure an acquisition of health, 
strength, and vigor, both of body and mind. Sudden changes, how- 
ever, must not be resorted to ; but a gradual reduction of the sub- 
stantial amount of food, drink, &c. This might be accomplished 
without extremely painful sensations, by reducing first the quality 
rather than the quantity of food ; that is, by taking the same bulk, 
but a less nutritious kind. For instance, grains instead of flesh — 
esculent roots instead of bread — the coarser and simpler dishes of 
every kind instead of those more richly prepared. The more 
coarse and simple the better, not only for the corpulent but for 
others. For want of some such attention to abstinence, disorders 
of mind and body must inevitably ensue. First in the train of 
consequences, are stupidity of mind, languor, deficiencies in the di- 
gestive and perspiratory functions, including colds, inflamed lungs, 
and the entire families of dyspepsies and liver affections. In reg- 
ular succession, follow fevers, a numerous class of nervous disor- 
ders, with unnumbered other evils — lastly, premature derange- 
ments of both bodily and mental faculties, premature advances of 
old age and of death. For more than half the evils of disease, 
man may doubtless justly consider himself indebted to his own 
abuse of meats and drinks, and for a large portion of the other 
half, to abuse of sleep, clothing and exercise. * * * * I con- 
sider occasional attacks of illness inseparable from the course of 
life that duty points out for you to pursue ; yet I do firmly believe 
that you might adopt an improvement in your habits of living and 
of exercise, for instance, subjecting yourself to less exposures, 
which would greatly promote unimpaired health, vigor and strength 
of mind, serve to continue your life much longer, and greatly in- 

24* 



282 MEMOIRS OF 

crease the amount of your usefulness in the cause of God. * # 

Since we parted, I have been afflicted with an influenza. I am 
now approaching to health of body, though laboring under much 
depression and discouragement of mind. When the elements com- 
bine in disorder and seize my mental faculties with ennui — when 
all the passing events of moral agencies and the thousand circum- 
stances attendant on life's concerns, apparently conspire against 
me, and forbid any prospect of usefulness, either to myself or oth- 
ers, despondency and weariness of a life so unprofitable, prey on 
all my mortal powers with a very unhappy effect. Frequent days, 
weeks, and months have I passed, and still do pass in such frames. 
Look at my own heart — all is to be done. Look at a perishing 
world of fellow sinners, dying for lack of knowledge — infinite la- 
bors are needed for their salvation, yet I am feeble in body, and 
sorely pressed with poverty. Look on Zion — behold her desolate, 
divided within herself, distracted with false doctrines, seduced by 
the transformations of satan under the guise of the ministers of 
Christ ; and so long practiced in tampering with error's drugs, that 
her stomach loathes medicine from the true Physician, and cannot, 
will not, bear a healthy regimen. Good Lord ! exclaims my heart, 
why hast thou given my eyes to see these things, since I can in no 
wise remedy them ? My heart is willing, but all else presents an 
impenetrable barrier to usefulness on my part. Lord, I am sick 
of the world — sick of life — weary with myself— weary with all 
things but thee and thy saints — thy undefiled saints. I have none 
but God in heaven or earth, to alleviate my woes by bearing a 
part. I have none, when absent from you, to be a partner in sweet 
counsel, and in holy friendship. * * * 

I hope I have an interest in your prayers, for none are more 
needy. Farewell. Yours in love, 

S. Beede. 

Mr. Marks replied as follows. 

Tunbridge, Vt. Sat. Feb. 25, 1832. 
My Dear Brother, 

Mrs. Marks wrote you from Randolph, but I was so ill 
that I knew little that she wrote. My relapse confined me in Ran- 
dolph thirteen days. I came here yesterday, and have preached 
one short discourse sitting in a chair. For a week past, I have 
suffered little pain, but I remain very weak, and can bear little ex- 
posure. I have felt great anxiety for the denomination — for the 
Book Concern — for my printing debts at Limerick and Portland, 
and particularly for my brother Samuel, since he has given up all 
to serve the cause of Christ. I thought it needful that I use all 



DAVID MARKS. 283 

diligence, and lose no time, particularly on account of the hymn 
book and on your account. But I have been compelled to yield as 
one whose health is gone, and whose constitution is for the present 
worn down, if not worn out. Sometimes, I have turned my face 
to the wall and wept ; but in general I have felt sweet composure 
in saying, " The will of the Lord be done." My heavenly Fath- 
er knows what is best. In these seasons of weeping I have 
thought, O that I could see brother Samuel. But the reflection 
that you were engaged for the interests of Zion, reconciled me to 
endure the long separation till it shall please God to bring us to- 
gether. 

I think it my duty to listen now to the repeated advice I have 
had for years to be more watchful in the care of my -health. If 
this does not turn to my recovery, the will of the Lord be done. 
Though I have been an unprofitable servant, through the grace of 
God, I believe I can say in truth, " I am pure from the blood of 
all men." Since my turns of severe illness this winter, I have sev- 
eral times thought I might not recover ; but, blessed be God, in 
the clearest views of my departure, I have felt sweet consolation 
in the firm confidence that I have preached the truth as it is in 
Jesus, and that I have received from God that preaching for which 
I have been most persecuted, particularly my testimony against 
Free Masonry, and against the spirit of pride and worldly popu- 
larity, which so much prevail in the church. * * * 

Your letter is just received. It is as cold water to the thirsty 
soul, and has much increased my anxiety to see you. Your advice 
with respect to dieting is very acceptable, and I have about come 
to the conclusion to take up my cross and follow it. As to a lit- 
erary institution, I wish one might be established, and I will do all 
in my power consistently to forward it. It is now near meeting 
time ; I intend to ride about sixty rods, and sit and preach once. 
I hardly feel as well as I did yesterday, but if very careful I hope 
I shall get along without another confinement. 

I feel very thankful to God for the kindness he has shown us as 
a people in sending brother Samuel to our help. My open manner 
must have conveyed to you an idea of the esteem I have for your 
talents and piety. While I have observed your humility, I have 
felt almost as though it was impossible that pride should ever stain 
your soul, or success elate your heart. I believe you have a mind 
above such folly. Still I know your probation is not ended, and 
neither you nor I have passed beyond temptations, dark, deceitful, 
powerful. If you continue humble, and maintain a holy, fervent 
breathing after God, and lean not to your own understanding, but 
lean upon him that is Almighty, I doubt not but that you will be 
more useful than any man that God has raised up among us. 3 



284 MEMOIRS OF 

watch and pray. Prayfor us that we may walk carefully before 

God and before all men, that the cause be not blamed. Let us do 
all things with great humility, patience, forbearance, and charity, 
for in this day "Of schisms it, is needful that we have in exer- 
cise all the Christian virtues. Farewell. 

Your affectionate brother in Christ, 

I). Marks. 

Journal. u I left Randolph, and till the early part of April was 

engaged in preaching mostly In Now Hampshire, in those places 

where my sickness had obliged me to disappoint congregations. 

The intervals were employed in writing to correspondents, in get- 
ting subscribers for the new hymn book, and in laboring in various 
ways to promote the interests of the Book Concern. I had to trav- 
el slowly, as my strength would bear, and preach silting in a chair. 
In Alexandria, where I preached the May previous with such 
views of the worth of the soul, [see page 2. r ><H,] I found to my great 
joy that about twenty had been converted, several of whom dated 

their awakening at that meeting. Until now, I had not heard of 
any fruits from that sermon; but 1 had thought if there were not, 
it would be strange indeed. At Great Kails, the meeting house 
was opened to me, the church having sent me a written request to 
preach in it. Thank Cod, for the victory of right principles." 

The following are extracts from his letters, written during this 
period, taken from copies kept in his possession. 

Dear sister Cibbs, 

Last evening we gladly received a letter from you, and 
although it brought tidings of such afflictions as are frequent in the 
church militant, we rejoiced to hear from you. Your letter brought 
to our remembrance the sweet hours we have enjoyed under your 
roof. 

With regard to your inquiries Concerning the doctrine of sancti- 
fication, you say you have been told that Free-will Baptists do not 
believe in it. This statement, without any qualification, is certain- 
ly incorrect ; for we believe, or at least profess to believe, all the 
doctrine which the Scriptures teach, and none can deny that this 
doctrine is taught in the Bible. Sanctification signifies, first, to 
separate and appoint any thing to a holy and religious use. God 
sanctified the seventh day, also the first born of Israel, and thus 
the temple, the priests, the garments, the altars, the sacrifiees, and 
all the cups, basins, and other furniture of the temple were sancti- 
fied. Again, it signifies to cleanse a sinner from the pollution of 
sin, to free him from its power, and give him a holy principle of 
love to God and his creatures, and fit him for holy use. The doc- 
trine of sanctification signifies being made holy. But there are de- 



DAVID MARKS. 285 

grees in this work, or Paul would not have prayed God to sancti- 
fy his Thessalonian brethren wholly. 1 Thess. 5:23. I believe 
every Christian may be entirely sanctified in this life ; yea, I may 
say further, that it is the duty and privilege of every saint to ob- 
tain the entire victory over all sin, and that in whatever propor- 
tion a soul approaches toward perfection, in the same degree he 
approaches towards entire sanctification. Christ commands us to 
be perfect. Matt. 5:48. None but infidels dare charge him with 
having given a grievous command. Thou shalt love the Lord with 
all thy heart, is a requirement of the gospel, and it is the blessed 
privilege of the saint to obey the sacred injuction. If we do, we shall 
then be sanctified wholly. Would to God that Christians would 
more generally strive for this attainment. If they did, what hum- 
ble and happy Christians should we see in our congregations. * 
* * Yours in Christ, 

D. Marks. 

[To Elder Thomas Parker, Penfield.] 

Fishersfield, N. H. March 5, 1832. 
Dear Brother Parker, 

How I wish I could come and see you. The time seems 
long since we parted ; but, through the grace of God, I am still 
your unworthy brother in the kingdom and patience of Jesus 
Christ. Though I stay long in New England, I know r I love my 
brethren in New York as well as I ever did. Sometimes I fancy 
myself at your house, talking with you and sister Parker, and the 
dear children, as in former days ; then I am at brother Conant's 
and all about in Penfield among my Father's children. Next I 
am over to Walworth, at my dear brother Lyon's, and then again 
down in North Penfield at brother Cole's, whose house seems ren- 
dered almost sacred by the good meetings we have had there. But 
presently I find myself five hundred miles distant, and likely to be 
for some months to come ; and here I am fighting against the un- 
scriptural practices that are corrupting the church, and almost con- 
stantly getting more enemies than friends. But, blessed be God, 
though the time has come that many will not bear " sound doc- 
trine," my plain preaching has not rendered me so odious, that any 
more than " all men" have spoken evil of me. Another thing, 
brother Parker, I feel to thank the blessed Savior for, and this is, 
that he has so strengthened me and set my face against Babylon 
and all her bewitching furniture, that the loss of my interest, or 
honor, or popularity for Christ's sake, seems no more to me than a 
bubble — a phantom. By the grace of God, I am determined that 
I will not ask leave of men to declare the whole counsel of God 
against all the abominations that are done in the earth. O, my 



286 MEMOIRS OF 

dear brother, do be faithful in the holy ministry, whereunto you 
are called, and preach plain, pointed, simple, Holy Ghost truth, and 
may God bless you abundantly. Please give my warm respects to 
all the brethren. May they be humble and holy. I am thine in 
the gospel, David Marks. 

[To his brother Ives Marks.] 

My dear brother, 

* * * Great was our joy on hearing of your firm reso- 
lution to live in the service of our dear Redeemer. We trust you 
are steadfast in the blessed truth of the gospel, " for he that wa- 
vereth is like a wave of the sea," tossed with the tempest. Noth- 
ing can be accomplished well without steady perseverance ; and 
we can never be established Christians, and shine as lights in the 
world, unless we " dig deep and build on the rock." We must be 
rooted and grounded in the truth, insomuch that interest, honor, 
ease, or anything in this world, shall not, on any occasion, inter- 
fere to turn us from duty. Self must be denied and our will sub- 
dued, so that on every occasion we shall be ready to do anything 
the Lord requires of us. That our obedience may be acceptable, 
it is needful that we be always resolved to obey the Lord immedi- 
ately, and never put off the duty of to-day until to-morrow. * 
* * I would rather be an humble Christian than to be mon- 
arch of the world, for by this I should be ten millions of times 
better off. A monarch of a world, if he had nothing more, would 
be unhappy still, and would have to leave it all in seventy or eigh- 
ty years at the farthest, and then, alas ! he would be a poor man : 
while I should enjoy the unsearchable riches of Christ all the days 
of my life, be they many or few, and then, glory to God, I should 
go to possess an immortal and eternal inheritance — an unfading 
treasure. So I am resolved to be a whole hearted Christian, in- 
side and out, at home and abroad, in public and private. I know 
God will help me, for without him I can do nothing. May the 
Lord strengthen and bless you and enable you to withstand every 
temptation, and ever bear the cross of the dear Redeemer. Then 
shall the light of Christ illumine your way — the Holy Spirit lead 
and guide you into all truth. I have found it useful to allot to my- 
self a certain portion of Scripture to read every day, and have 
made it a rule to commit to memory five or six verses daily. I 
have also made it a constant practice to kneel and pray three times 
every day, as David says, " Morning and evening, and at noon, 
will I pray and cry aloud." Should you adopt the same rules, I 
doubt not but you would find them very serviceable. If you should 
learn five verses daily in the New Testament, you would commit 
it to memory in four or five years. And though you may forget 



DAVID MARKS. 287 

so as not to be able to recite it verbatim, still you would gain a 
great knowledge of the doctrine of the Bible. May the Lord pre- 
serve you blameless to his coming and kingdom. 
Your affectionate brother, 

David Marks. 

[To Elder Junia S. Mowry, R. I.] 

April 5, 1832. 
My dear brother Junia, 

* * * I was glad to hear that you are yet willing to spend 
your time in publishing the glad tidings of the gospel, and in try- 
ing to persuade souls to flee from the wrath to come. This em- 
ployment is truly more noble, glorious, and honorable, than to dwell 
in king's courts, or sit in the high places of the earth. Though a 
man suffer the loss of all things here, and among men be account- 
ed the offscouring of all things, yet if he be a chosen vessel of the 
Lord, and God make him instrumental of saving souls, he is truly 
more favored than the princes of the earth. Yes, I consider your 
calling more honorable than to be a successful candidate for the 
Presidency of the United States. O that neither you nor I may 
ever adapt our discourses to suit the society we are in, whether their 
views, spirit, and practice are according to the word of God or 
not. O Junia, make full proof of your ministry. You remark 
that you had great trials the winter past respecting the wants of 
Zion. This is a good sign. When the heart of man is opened to- 
ward the church, and he feels pained at her sorrows, this is an in- 
timation that God desires to use him for the publishing of peace to 
the humble in spirit, and to pronounce a wo from God to those 
who are at ease in Zion. We may yet rejoice, for the Maker of 
Zion is the Almighty. He will soon " lay her foundations with 
sapphires," " her stones with fair colors." " Her windows shall be 
set in agates, and the ransomed of the Lord shall return and come 
to Zion with songs and everlasting joy upon their heads : they shall 
obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away." 
Go on, my brother, and spend your life for the prosperity of the 
Redeemer's kingdom; so he that owns all earth and heaven shall 
reward you a hundred fold in your own bosom, and give you eter- 
nal life besides. Need we envy the nobles of this world, while we 
have such a Savior and such promises ? No, we have an assurance 
of unsearchable riches. 

You wish me to examine often and see whether I am in the 
faith. I thank you for this. Such exhortations and watchings 
over my soul prove to me who are my friends. * * 

Yours affectionately. 

David Marks. 



288 MEMOIRS Of* 

[To Howell Hearn, minister of the General Baptists in North Carolina*] 

April 12, 1832. 
Dear Brother, 

Your communication of March 5, was received a few days 
since and perused with much thankfulness and comfort. I felt to 
thank God for that blessed uniting tie which binds those together 
who never saw each other in the flesh. This is a bond of union 
sweeter than life and stronger than death. If its enjoyment is so 
pleasant in this world, O what will it be, when it becomes complete 
ed, when no more it is chilled by our imperfections, nor clogged by 
the clods of flesh. While iniquity abounds, many turn after the 
friendship of the world and their love grows cold. But if we 
would be counted worthy to appear with the Lamb in his kingdom 
and glory, we " must follow him whithersoever he goeth." If thus 
we do, he will lead us not to a barren waste, but to living fountains 
where joy is complete, and where there are treasures forevermore. 

The general state of religion in these northern states during the 
preceding year has been very good. There has been, perhaps, as 
much revival in these states in proportion to the number of inhab* 
itants, as there has been for a year in any country, since our bless- 
ed Savior and his. apostles preached in Palestine and Asia Minor. 
At present, however, there seems to be a decline. Among Free- 
will Baptists as well as among other denominations there are ma- 
ny refreshing seasons. Still there is a great lack of engagedness, 
for Christians ought to love the Lord with all the heart. We have 
had a very tedious winter. The snow fell in November, and still there 
is a great body of it on the earth. In some places, where I have 
travelled in New Hampshire and Vermont, the snow was four feet 
deep on a level, and near Franconia, N. H., I understood it was 
six feet and in some places eight feet deep on a level. Only three 
weeks since, I saw the road full, even with the tops of the fences 
for many miles. * * * * Finally, brother, farewell. Pray 
for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course and be glo- 
rified. Your affectionate brother in Christ. 

David Marks. 

Journal. " The latter part of March I received notice that the 
copy for the hymn book would soon be ready for publication and 
the interest of the Book Concern required that it should not be de- 
layed. Many embarrassments lay in my way. In consequence of 
my sickness, I had obtained few subscribers and my expenses and 
consequent losses had been about two hundred dollars. The Book 
Concern had no funds. Brethren dared not lend me money, or 
undersign my notes as they considered the whole attempt hazard- 
ous, and my health remained very poor. I could only lay my case 



bavxd MAiiKs. 289 

before Him for whom I had engaged in this enterprise, promising 
if He would open the way, to brave every difficulty. As the 
hymn book was to be a standard work, it was important that it 
should be stereotyped. Accordingly I went from Holderness to 
Boston in two days and a half, through bad roads and inclement 
weather, to see what could be done. Being a stranger, I found af- 
ter repeated trials that I could do nothing to any advantage with- 
out funds. The sale of my " Narrative" had been much more 
ready than I anticipated, and I had now with me $200, received 
from that source above the cost of publication. By paying this in 
advance, I could get the stereotyping done for forty-two dollars less 
than I could do otherwise. So I took this step, not knowing what 
door would next open. I left the city almost discouraged, stopped 
in Charlestown, and retired to bed, but not to sleep. The night 
was passed in much anxious reflection and prayer. At length, the 
following scrip of personal history occurred to mind, which I had 
heard months before respecting Mr. John K. Simpson, President 
of a bank in Boston. When he was young he lived in New 
Hampshire, and was a Free-will Baptist. While yet a lad, he 
went to Boston, poor and almost penniless. As he was passing 
Charlestown bridge (which connects Charlestown with Boston,) he 
stopped and leaned over the railing, and, while his tears mingled 
with the waters beneath, he promised the Lord, if he would pros- 
per him, that he would devote a certain part of his income for the pro- 
motion of his cause. The Lord answered his prayer, and he had now 
become wealthy. The thought that i perhaps he may aid me/ deter- 
mined me to see him. A little after the dawn of the morning, I 
went into Boston, and by the help of a city Directory found his 
house. He was not up, but sending in my name, he recognized 
it, having seen it in the Morning Star, and very politely sent 
me back an invitation to breakfast with him. In about an hour I 
had an introduction to him, and laid before him the object of my 
visit. In a very kind manner he replied, " I will assist you by mak- 
ing your notes bankable for whatever sums you may need, and then 
they will answer all the purposes of money." He did so, subse- 
quently to the amount of $8,000. This seemed such an answer to 
prayer that my soul was greatly affected. 

I returned to Limerick in the early part of April. While pass- 
ing through a piece of woods, just at dark within a few miles of 
the village, I saw a man lying drunk on the snow. As it was a 
very cold night, I feared he would perish ; but I was too feeble to 
lift him into my carriage. My soul was filled with a holy indig- 
nation toward those who, for filthy lucre, will thus destroy their fel- 
low men. Coming soon to the tavern, where he obtained his " li- 
quid fire," and feeling anxious to rebuke the sin as well as save the 
25 



290 MEMOIRS OF 

poor man, I rode up to the door, around which a crowd was stand- 
ing, and inquired for the landlord. I told him, that at a little distance 
in the wood, there was a man lying on the snow, poisoned, and I 
feared that if he were not taken care of, that he would perish. 
Not understanding me, he inquired : " Poisoned? How?" " With 
alcohol," I replied. " Indeed, why did not you take care of him ?" 
I told him I was ill, and had not strength to lift him, and withal, 
as he dealt out the poison, the duty was his, and if he perished, his 
blood would be upon him. Some that were present said the man 
should be taken care of. 

On arriving at Limerick, I found the preparation of the hymn 
book had been hindered from various causes, so that it was uncer- 
tain whether it would be ready by the time I had engaged to have 
it at the stereotype foundry. I concluded to remain a while, and 
with my companion aid in the work. Not aware that mere men- 
tal labor would injure me, I spent for four weeeks, much of the 
time, sixteen hours per day, in close application to the work. At 
the same time, my physical strength was such that I could bear al- 
most no exercise. The result was a severe attack of dyspepsia. 
During this period, I preached a few times in Limerick and the 
adjacent towns, and on some of these occasions my soul was led out 
into the deep things of God." 

The Morning Star of April 13, 1832, contained a letter address- 
ed to Elder John Buzzell, from Mr. Amos Sutton, missionary to 
Orissa, in Hindoostan. Mr. Sutton was sent out as a missionary 
by the General Baptists of England. A correspondence had been 
opened between this denomination and the Free-will Baptists, and 
it was found that their views of Scripture doctrine were alike. Mr. 
Sutton's letter was an appeal to the Free-will Baptists, urging 
them to engage in the mission enterprise, and labor in the same 
field with the General Baptists. He closed his letter in the follow- 
ing pathetic language : 

" I have lived more than six years in the province [Orissa] and 
a great part of the time close to this enormous Jugurnath. I have 
seen the mangled victims of his infatuated adorers lying by hun- 
dreds upon hundreds, exposed to the birds and beasts. I have lis- 
tened to their dying exclamations, " Jugurnath ! Jugurnath ! Jug- 
urnath !" and have seen them die with the words on their lips. I 
have seen the pit dug, and the fire kindled in it, to consume the 
young widow with her husband's corpse, and in one instance, I 
succeeded in saving her from this horrible death. I have seen Jug- 
urnath in his triumphal car dragged by thousands of his worship- 
pers, men, women, and children; and I have seen the wretched 
victims crushed beneatb it, with a thousand other horrors, which 
well nigh overwhelm the m™d at the mighty power of the god of 



DAVID MARKS. 291 

this world. The gospel is the antidote for all these miseries, and 
under its influence, the Hindoo Brahmin, who has set fire to the 
pile which consumed his living mother and dead father, has become 
the meek and affectionate preacher of the reign of mercy, and has 
died consoled by the grace he proclaimed to others. Come, then, 
my American brethren, come over and help us. The way is as 
short and as safe from India to heaven, as from your land of priv- 
ileges. Come and win some of these trophies, to deck the crown 
of Jesus, and then remove from earth to heaven, and say, " Here 
I am, Lord, and the children which thou hast given me." Fare- 
well. Yours in the hope of the gospel, A. Sutton." 

This appeal had the effect almost of an electric shock upon the 
mind of Mr. Marks, and ever after, the mission cause had his 
warmest sympathies. Nor was it lost upon the denomination. 
Their apathy began to give way, and soon a Missionary Society 
was formed, of which Elder John Buzzell was President. 

Journal. " Saturday, April 28. The hymn book being now 
ready, I engaged brother Beede to go to Boston, and superintend 
its publication, while I again resumed my labors among the church- 
es. I held a few meetings in Dover and Great Falls. In the lat- 
ter place I preached the funeral sermon of a grand-daughter of 
Elder Benjamin Randall. She delayed repentance till on her dy- 
ing bed, and then hoped she found mercy. I visited her during 
her sickness, and she requested me to preach at her funeral. 
Among the mourning relatives, was a son of Elder Randall. 

Sabbath, May 6, I spent in Candia. About forty had recently 
been converted in this place. The next day I preached in North- 
wood. Some were awakened who afterwards, I was informed, 
professed to find the Savior. Tuesday, I preached in Strafford, 
from Matt. 18:7, " Wo unto the world, because of offences." The 
subject opened to my mind with such clearness as almost to over- 
power me, nor did the audience seem much less affected. 

Elder Place gave me the reading of the records of the first 
Free-will Baptist church that was formed, kept mostly in Elder 
Randall's hand writing. From these records it appeared that 
Free-will Baptists, at that time, made provision for defraying the 
expenses of the church, and for aiding the poor by a church stock, 
raised by a tax on the property of the church members. The fol- 
lowing is taken from those records, on an occasion where it had 
been voted to raise six pounds. 

" Monthly meeting, New Durham, Oct. 18, 1794. 
We, the subscribers, being appointed to take a just valuation of 
the interest of the male members of said meeting, in order to raise 
a church stock by an equality, have, according to the best of our 



292 



MEMOIRS OF 



judgment, set against each member's name his proportion of the 
sum of six pounds lawful money. 
Members. s. d. Members. 

B. Randall, 4 J. Young, 

Dea. E. Bickford, 5-3 J. Kennison, 



D. 



" S. Pottle, 


4 


Z. Boody, 
J. Boody, 
J. Hasse, 


11- 
2 
4 


I. Buzzell, 


6 


D. Kelly, 

R. 0. Randall, 


5 

2 



s 

2 

4 

2-6 
11 

6 

4 
13-5 

6-6 

2-9 



s 
J. Runnals, 7-6 
D.Morrison, 7-6 
S. Drown, 4 
S. Tasker, 4 
J. Foss, 8 



Do 



Total, £6 7 11" 



Jos. Kennison, 
-6 Saml Runnels, 

J. Buzzell, 

Z. Glidden, 

T. Davis, 

J. Penny, 

T. Norton, 

The following extract from a letter, written to S. Beede ahout 
this period, is introduced as somewhat illustrative of Mr. Marks' 
views of using property. 

" Perhaps I have been too fearful of contracting debts for your 
service. If it has been so, my friend will impute it to no other 
principle than that of caution, which is the " parent of safety." We 
may presume too much on what a denomination ought to do, and 
at last find what is every body's business is neglected by all. I ac- 
knowledge I have felt no small delicacy in risking the loss of my 
little all, and for which, if I am successful, I expect no temporal 
reward. Still, if you want fifty dollars, besides economical expen- 
ses, for the purchase of books, I do not know as I can refuse this 
favor now. But this I can advise, and I think you will accept it 
as from a friend, that you ever study the best economy in your ex- 
penses. Jesus Christ became poor — literally poor, and his expen- 
ses were suited to this condition, so that he had not where to lay 
his head — had no money to pay tribute ; yet he never murmured, 
though the world was his. We are God's stewards, and our econ- 
omy and our motto should be, not like that of worldly gentlemen, 
who indulge their wishes for whatever pleases their fancy, but in 
the language of the apostle, " As poor, yet making many rich." 
The reflection that the most of God's useful men, and those who 
have rendered the greatest service to their fellow men, have been 
poor in this world, and that the time is short, very, very short, 
when we must give an account to God for our stewardship, is 
enough to fill us with awe, and put up a bar against unnecessary 
indulgence. 

" Of all the friends I have ever had, I suppose you may have 
had reason to think there is none whose welfare and prosperity are 
nearer my heart than that of my friend Samuel ; not that I ever 
thought you perfect in judgment or in life. But this I may say, 
your influence has been as weighty on my mind as I think that of 



DAVID MARKS. 293 

any imperfect man ought to be. I have had reason to be thankful 
for the plainness you have used with me in time past ; but I think 
you may yet show me still more kindness in telling me my faults 
and your fears. May you be prepared for usefulness in Zion, not 
only by the acquirement of knowledge, but also by a close com- 
munion with God, and by being filled with wisdom and the Holy 
Ghost. I pray God to comfort you and strengthen you for your 
work. Watch your own spirit, examine your own heart, and take 
time to pray much for the church, the world, for yourself, and for 
your affectionate brother, David Marks." 

Journal. " Thursday, 10, I left Strafford, and during the four 
ensuing days, attended seven meetings on my way to New Durham 
quarterly meeting in Loudon. Elder Place preached a sermon on 
holiness, which, if practiced, would make the world a paradise. I 
spoke from Ephesians 1:11 : " In whom we have obtained an inher- 
itance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who 
worketh all things after the counsel of his own will." The divis- 
ion of the subject was as follows. 1. The will of God. 2. His 
works according to the counsel of the same. 3. The obtaining the 
inheritance. 4. The purpose of God. 5. The predestination of 
the saints. It pleased the Lord to give me freedom, so that I was 
enabled to speak with animation more than two hours. After the 
close of the quarterly meeting, I went to Dover, preaching by the 
way, and in compliance with a previous engagement, attended 
three days at a protracted meeting which followed the dedication of 
the Free-will Baptist meeting house. Several ministers were 
present, and about twelve awakened souls found peace in believing. 
Much very important labor having accumulated on my hands with 
regard to the business of the Book Concern, I was obliged to sit 
up during my attendance of this meeting, writing with my compan- 
ion, nearly the whole of the nights. 

Friday, May 25, I was present at the marriage of my friend 
Beede to Miss Mary E. Spaulding. As Mr. Beede was to leave 
early next morning to return to Boston, and as there w r as consider- 
able indispensable business to be prepared before he left, I worked 
all night. I had now a great pressure of cares which threatened 
to crush me. I had become responsible for about $2400, including 
what I had paid, all due within a year. I had only about fifteen 
hundred subscribers for the hymn book, and if the edition of four 
thousand copies was sold as soon as issued, it would not pay the 
cost, including copy and plates. I had important engagements that 
would call me to New York in the fall, and detain me there till the 
ensuing spring, while, in consequence of unforeseen delays, the 
book would not be out till July, so that I had only three months to< 
25* 



294 MEMOIRS OF 

collect and insure the collecting of the $2400. I felt anxieties 
which I had not known before, and burdens that pressed heavily 
upon me. I had tried to shake them off, but in spite of all my ef- 
forts, still they clung to me. As soon as Mr. Beede left, I stopped 
a moment to rest, but my excessive fatigues of body and mind had 
been too much for my nervous system to endure. I became lost, 
my memory was gone, and it was with much difficulty that the 
most powerful stimulants could recover me. My friends, as well 
as myself, were alarmed, and for most of the day I kept my bed. 
After a little sleep, I was enabled, in some measure, to cast my 
cares upon the Lord, and although, as in the reading of Moses, 
there was a veil over the face, and on natural principles (consider- 
ing my health) my prospects were dark, yet as I looked to Him for 
whose sake I had taken these burdens, I felt a sweet hope that he 
would carry me through, and I began to labor again with courage. 

Sabbath, May 27, I preached again in Dover, and during the 
week, attended the Weare quarterly meeting in Boscawen. Many 
appeared deeply impressed, and several seemed to be near the 
kingdom of God. I preached three times during the session in 
compliance with urgent solicitations, but found it greatly wearied 
me. The following Sabbath, I spent in Canterbury. This church 
had just lost their pastor, who had been settled over them thirty- 
five years. Though I had passed a sick night, the Lord strength- 
ened me to preach twice. My mind was remarkably clear, and 
God's melting power was present in the assembly. Tuesday, I 
preached on the subject of stewardship. It was a heart-searching 
time, and my own soul was deeply humbled. What is more hu- 
miliating than the view that we have nothing we can call our 
own? 

June 8 — 11, I attended the New Hampshire yearly meeting in 
Andover, and though very feeble, yet being much urged, I preach- 
ed twice. Several other sermons were given. The business meet- 
ing was a trying time, but the power of God attended the preach- 
ing of his word. A revival commenced, and on the evening of the 
11th, five professed to be converted. 

The prosperity of the Book Concern, and the cause in general, 
seeming to demand a tour through the churches in Maine, I thought 
it duty to commence it in season to attend the Penobscot yearly 
meeting. Friday, June 14, I called on Elder J. Buzzell in Par- 
sonsfield. He was actively engaged in getting subscriptions to 
build a Seminary. Nine hundred dollars had been subscribed, and 
the building was commenced. He had also received about fifty 
dollars towards the establishment of a Foreign Mission. May 
these small beginnings be the harbingers of great success. Sab- 
bath, June 16, I was enabled to preach twice in Limerick, and 



DAVID MARKS. 295 

once in Limington. Blessed be the Lord, for restoring mercies, 
My invaluable friend Beede has just written me some hints that 
I hope will do me good. He says, " I am sorry you are so indis- 
posed, though it is no more than I expected would be your lot, 
The great anxiety of mind which you often indulge, and have par- 
ticularly with regard to the Book Concern, the immense labors you 
perform, together with your past inattention to diet and regimen, 
&c, are such as no human constitution can long endure unimpair- 
ed. Dyspepsia, or other maladies of a more fatal nature, must in- 
evitably follow. But wisdom is profitable to direct. I feared the 
undue worry of mind, that appeared to rest upon you, when I 
last saw you, would drive you to insanity, or otherwise destroy 
your usefulness. Therefore, I tried to reprove your anxiety and 
distrust in God." O Lord, help me to correct all my errors. Thou 
knowest I have seen so much to be done to bring back this revolt- 
ed world to thee, that I have not taken time to acquaint myself 
with the laws of health. How much there is that I need to know. 
I thank thee for the faithfulness of my dear brother Beede. 

Tuesday, June 18. We found a great agitation in Portland, 
from a report that the Asiatic cholera had reached our continent. 
We hoped to hear it contradicted ; but, on arriving at Gardiner, 
we heard a confirmation of the dreadful tidings. There had been 
forty-nine cases in Quebec, forty-five of which had proved fatal. 
In Montreal, there had been fifteen cases, seven of them fatal, and 
it was spreading rapidly in other towns. It was brought from Ire- 
land in a vessel, on which, it was reported, that forty-two died 
during the passage. The emigration from Ireland to Quebec, is 
said to exceed one thousand in a day. I have just been inform- 
ed that the physicians and people have met to petition the govern- 
ment to stop up the Canada road from this place to Quebec, a dis- 
tance of two hundred miles. But O, how vain will be their efforts 
to stay the judgments of the Lord. It may be among us in a few 
days, and many, yes, many of our friends may die. I may be call- 
ed away by this pestilence. Am I prepared ? Blessed be God, I 
feel to say, " The will of the Lord be done," whether it be life or 
death. But as life is uncertain, I will make my will, and arrange 
my temporal concerns, that I may be ready to go any moment the 
Lord may call. Glory to God for the comfort I feel in the reflec- 
tion, that, through grace, I have been enabled to leave all for 
Christ's sake, and devote my whole time in preaching his precious 
word. In the evening, I preached in Gardiner from the text, 
" Prepare to meet your God." I alluded to the pestilence, and 
urged the importance of being prepared to meet it. For some time 
my mind had been deeply impressed with the belief that the judg- 
ments of God were hanging over us, and that soon the Lord would 



296 MEMOIRS OF 

scourge us for our sins. For a year past, I had often been led to 
name this in my preaching with the keenest feelings, and often told 
my assemblies, that I believed God would send the cholera to pun- 
ish our nation for its wickedness. Many had ridiculed the idea 
that the cholera would ever come to this country, across the great 
ocean. The public journals had ridiculed it. Alas ! it has ever 
been with this wicked world, that they would not believe that judg- 
ments were at hand, until they came. 

Thursday, June 20. I again had another of those strange at- 
tacks. My memory was gone, so that I could not tell where I 
was, or what I was, nor think of my name. Physicians call it a 
nervous affection. I got better, so that I rode nearly thirty miles 
to China. In passing through Augusta, I was informed a man 
was there the Tuesday previous, then five days from Quebec. He 
said the cholera raged so before he left that individuals dropped in 
the street and died before they could be carried into a house, and 
he then thought it time for him to flee. I read in an Augusta pa- 
per that the cholera had reached Albany ! 

Friday, I rode thirty miles to Newburg, near the Penobscot 
river, where the Penobscot yearly meeting commenced its session 
the next day. The tidings of the approach of the cholera produc- 
ed an unwonted solemnity on the audience. Elder Elias Hutch- 
ins was present, and gave an interesting account of his visit to 
North Carolina, among the people called General Baptists ; but 
who, from the time of his first visiting them, called themselves Free- 
will Baptists. He said their origin and early history were involv- 
ed in obscurity. They were supposed to have originated from the 
General Baptists in England, about seventy years ago. He also 
preached a very instructive and impressive sermon. On the Sab- 
bath, about two thousand people assembled ; and though I had pass- 
ed a sick night, I ventured to leave my bed about 10 o'clock, A. 
M., in compliance with the entreaties of brethren, went to the 
meeting, and spoke nearly two hours without apparent injury. My 
visit to this yearly meeting has awakened considerable interest in 
the Book Concern, and I think secured the efforts of some efficient 
brethren. 

Thursday, June 27, I preached in Prospect : the power of God 
attended the word ; thirty came forward for prayer, and several 
wept profusely. On the way to Prospect, I learned by the Penob- 
scot Journal, that the cholera was raging dreadfully at Montreal 
and Quebec. In the former place, the last day's report stated that 
between sunrise and sunset, there were one hundred and fif- 
ty cases, and one hundred and five deaths, and that it took all 
night to bury the dead ! Two days afterwards, I read in another 
public paper, that in Montreal, on the 17th inst., there were six 



DAVID MARKS. 297 

hundred cases of cholera, and that there had been sixteen hundred 
cases in ten days. Friday, June 29, 1 preached in Montville. This 
day I read in a Boston paper, that at Montreal there had been 
from the 11th to the 21st of June, no less than one thousand deaths 
by the cholera. All business had ceased, and even the stage, in 
its passage from that place, was unable to change horses in forty 
miles. On its approach, so great was the terror, that the inhabi- 
tants would shut their windows, and lock their doors. O Lord, 
have mercy on our country, though the abuse of thy many bless- 
ings deserves thy judgments. Yet, O Lord, do thou pity our na- 
tion according to thy long suffering, and according to the multitude 
of thy mercies. On this day, apple trees were full in blossom ; so 
backward is the season. 

Saturday and Sabbath, I attended the Edgcomb quarterly meet- 
ing in Windsor, and was very affectionately received. I preached 
twice with much freedom ; several came forward for prayer, among 
w^hom was a sea captain, who, it was said, until now had been in- 
clined to Universalism. Tuesday, July 3, I preached in Water- 
ville a poor dry sermon, and felt much humbled for my unprofita- 
bleness. I enjoyed an interview with brother Hosea Quinby, who 
had about finished his college studies. May he be a rich blessing 
to the denomination. During eight days following, I preached 
eight sermons to churches between Waterville and Limerick, and 
saw some persuaded to turn and live. 

Thursday, July 11, had been appointed by the joint recommen- 
dation of different denominations throughout the state, for fasting, 
humiliation and prayer, on account of the cholera. I preached at 
Limerick from Ps. 91:5 — 9. " Thou shalt not be afraid for the 
terror by night ; nor for the arrow that flieth by day ; nor for the 
pestilence that walketh in darkness ; nor for the destruction that 
w^asteth at noon day. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten 
thousand at thy right hand ; but it shall not come nigh thee. Only 
with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked^ 
because thou hast made the Lord, which is my refuge, even the Most 
High, thy habitation." The Sabbath following, I preached in Dover. 
Much alarm prevailing on account of the ravages of the cholera, a 
meeting was held by the inhabitants the next evening to take meas- 
ures to prevent its introduction, and to be prepared for it in case 
of its approach. On this evening, I spoke with much animation of 
soul to about eight hundred people at Great Falls. There were 
strict attention and much weeping in the audience. 

About this time, I received the first copies of " Christian Mel- 
ody," our new hymn book. It contains one thousand hymns and 
several anthems. Its appearance was very satisfactory, and I 
felt abundantly rewarded for all my anxious labors and embarrass- 



298 MEMOIRS OF 

ments in securing its publication. It was received by the subscri- 
bers and the public with gladness, and almost with enthusiasm. 

From the 16th of July to the 1st of August, my time was occu- 
pied with preaching in Dover, Great Falls, and in towns in their vi- 
cinity, and in supplying subscribers with the hymn book. I then 
went to Portland, Me. and sent off eight hundred copies in parcels to 
different sections. During the succeeding weeks, I visited various 
towns between Portland, Me. and Haverhill, Mass. preaching daily, 
distributing the hymn book, and receiving returns. 

Aug. 14 — 16, I attended the New Durham quarterly meeting in 
New Durham, the town where Randall formed the first Free-will 
Baptist church, and where his remains rest in glorious hope. It 
was a season of interest. I was especially rejoiced to find the infant 
book establishment growing fast into favor. For nearly a year I 
had been desirous to preach at Randall's grave, and Thursday, July 
16, I enjoyed the precious privilege. A neat marble slab, erected 
by the Free-will Baptist denomination, marked the sacred spot. 
On it was the following inscription : 

" SACRED 

TO THE MEMORY OF 

ELDER BENJAMIN RANDALL, 

THE FOUNDER OF THE FREE-WILL BAPTIST 
SOCIETY IN AMERICA. 

HE LABORED IN THE MINISTRY 

THIRTY YEARS. 

He died Oct. 22, 1808, aged 59 years 

7 months and 27 days. 

Sweet is thy rest, thou servant of the Lord, 
'Twas thy delight to preach his sacred word, 
Hundreds of souls shall deck thy starry crown, 
And all the glory to thy God redound." 

I stood at the head of the grave, and read from the " Life of 
Randall" his last letter to the Free-will Baptist denomination. It 
seemed, indeed, like a voice from his grave. Some of Randall's 
fellow laborers were present and were greatly affected." 

The following notice of this interesting meeting was written by 
Elder D. P. Cilley, clerk of New Durham quarterly meeting, and 
published in the Morning Star. 

" During the exercises of the New Durham quarterly meeting, 
notice was given that brother David Marks would preach a ser- 
mon at the grave of Randall. * * At the appointed 
hour, hundreds were seen in various directions walking solemnly 



DAVID MARKS. 299 

to the sacred spot. * * * Br. Marks, standing in 
a chair near the grave of one whose delight it was to call on his 
fellow men to seek God, commenced his address. After remarking, 
by way of introduction, that by meeting in that singular manner 
for the worship of God, they did not expect any supernatural ef- 
fect to attend, he proceeded to speak from Hebrews 11th chapter, 
and last part of the fourth verse. " He being dead, yet speaketh" 
The general heads of the discourse were as follows: 1. Notice the 
death of the saint. 2. Show how he yet speaks. 3. Make the 
application and improvement. In further treating the subject, he 
remarked ; 1. Death has lost its sting and is precious to the Chris- 
tian. 2. The saint, by the sacrifice of his life, and his all, speaks 
after death, God testifying of his gifts. 3. Elder Randall, by the 
entire sacrifice of his life to God, by his holiness and humility, still 
speaks to us. On account of time, the discourse was short, but in- 
structive and appropriate, and attended with much of the influence 
of the Holy Spirit, as is usually the case with the preaching of our 
dear brother. We can but think that the solemn truths advanced, 
will have a deep and lasting impression on the minds of many. 
Though the people generally were standing, they were very atten- 
tive, and it truly appeared as though God by his Spirit was in the 
midst. These solemn exercises closed by prayer, by Elder E. 
Place, who seemed to feel all the solemnity of the occasion. Quite 
a number of the servants of God were kneeled around the silent 
mound, and our brother, while in prayer, seemed to be filled with 
strong desires that they might possess much of the persevering 
and unwearied spirit of the departed Randall. Thus closed a scene 
to me new and very solemn." * * 

Some friends had expressed their fears to Mr. Marks that his 
piety must suffer from having so much secular business on his 
hands ; but all his secular avocations were the result of the same 
benevolence and devotedness that had constrained him from boy- 
hood to present himself as a living sacrifice in the service of God 
and man. In his business, he was as much the consecrated Chris- 
tian, as in the pulpit : hence, when pressed with worldly cares, his 
soul enjoyed spiritual health, and as his temporal avocations were 
never conducted in a secular spirit, his religious enjoyment seemed 
to increase in circumstances and occupations which would have 
been hurtful to the piety of many. The following are extracts 
from his correspondence about this period. 

" To the Benton quarterly meeting to be held August 10, 1832, Greeting. 

My dear brethren, 

As I cannot meet with you, I think it meet to report my situation 
to you by letter, agreeably to the advice of General Conference. 



800 MEMOIRS OF 



! 



The precious cause of Christ, which I embraced when a little child 
and confessed among you with trembling, is still dearer to my 
heart than every thing that can be named. A conviction of duty 
in the service of our great Redeemer alone has detained me from 
coming to you these many months. I long again to meet with you 
in your quarterly sessions, to visit your churches,, and pour out my 
soul at your family altars. I doubt not that you have afflictions 
and trials, for these are inseparable from the present imperfect state 
of the church. Still, blessed be God, we have more, yes, abun- 
dantly more, to encourage us than to discourage us. O may each 
of us serve God for ourselves, and serve the present generation 
for Christ's sake, that the peace of the great Head of the church 
may reign in our hearts, and that we may be counted worthy to 
stand in the Judgment. ****** 

As to my enjoyment, I have never felt more settled peace 
through our Lord Jesus Christ, than I have for two years 
past ; and never did I feel more determined to spend all my life in 
his service. The day of my espousal is still fresh in my memory, 
and the happy seasons I have had with you, I shall never forget. 
O brethren, watch and pray. Be not discouraged. The master 
will come and wipe away every tear from his children. Pray for 
me that I may be perfected in love. Farewell. 

Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 

D. Marks." 

" To the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, assembled in China, N. Y., 
Aug. 24, 1832, Greeting. 

My dear and beloved brethren, 

As this month came in, the remembrance of past oppor- 
tunities in our yearly meeting called my attention to the west, and 
painful was the thought that another session must pass before I 
can again meet you. Though communications with the pen are 
cold compared with those enjoyed when we meet face to face, I 
gladly embrace this privilege to assure you that that precious cause 
which engaged the attention of my childhood, is still dearer to my 
heart than any thing or every thing else ; yes, more precious than 
life. An inspired apostle once wrote to his brethren, that he had 
no greater joy than to hear that they walked in the truth ; and, O 
my brethren, I cannot tell the anxiety I feel to hear of your state, 
and how much I fear and tremble, lest I shall hear that some have 
departed from the faith and purity of the gospel. Not that I have 
not confidence in you, and hope better things of you, and things 
that accompany salvation, but I know that we live in a backsliding 
world, surrounded by a thousand foes, and the whole history of the 
church, in every age, has presented almost a continued scene of 
backsliding. 



DAVID MARKS. 301 

In many places in New England, the state of religion among 
our brethren, as well as among other denominations, is quite en- 
couraging. Still there is much to be done before the church shall 
be sanctified, and the glory of God shine without a cloud. The 
ministry must be purified, become more spiritual and devoted, more 
given up to their great work, and better prepared by a thorough 
knowledge of the Scriptures, and the influences of the Spirit, to 
win souls for the other world. Professed Christians must be sep- 
arate from the spirit of the world, from its pride and vanities. The 
worship of God must be established in every family, religious 
people must train up their children in the fear of the Lord, and 
covetousness must be suppressed. Then shall the light of Zion 
break forth as the morning, peace shall abound among the church- 
es, and the glory of God fill the whole earth. 

I pray that you may be favored with the presence of the great 
Head of the church, and that all of you may be tender hearted, 
loving one another, and forgiving one another, even as Christ has 
forgiven us ; and also be subject to one another for the Lord's 
sake. I beseech you to remember your unworthy brother in your 
prayers. My companion is still with me. She also saluteth you 
in the Lord. If the Lord will, we think to spend the ensuing 
winter with you, but many of us may meet no more in time. The 
angel of death has flown from the old world and lighted on our 
shores. Before he leaves, doubtless, he will conduct many of us 
to eternity. may we be ready and have our work done well, 
and in season, that we may meet the Lord with joy. Amen. 

Yours in Christ, 

D. Marks." 

Journal. " Saturday and Sabbath, August 18 and 19, I attend- 
ed the Sandwich quarterly meeting. The large meeting house was 
filled to overflowing. The power of God was present, and among 
the number that presented themselves for prayer were several that 
had been hitherto opposers. At this time I read an official report, 
stating that the cholera was in Boston, also that during the July 
past, there had been three thousand and forty three interred in the 
city of New York, most of whom had died with the pestilence ! 
It was raging dreadfully in many other towns in the state of New 
York. There were many instances, in which people in the high 
circles of life were in health, and cheerful with their friends, and 
in four hours were on their way to their graves. Business was at an 
end, and New York and Albany were gloomy and almost deserted 
cities. In one public journal, it was calculated, that at the present 
rate of mortality in New York city, the average life of man would 
be two years and twenty days. Aias ! alas ! Notwithstanding the 

26 



302 MEMOIRS OF 

unparralleled mortality in our country, great stupidity with regard 
to the greatest of all concerns, seems to have taken possession of 
the people. O for the influences of the Holy Spirit. 

Wednesday, Aug. 22, I preached a little dry sermon in Lisbon. 
Holy Father, pity thy unprofitable servant. The following Satur- 
day and Sabbath, I attended the Wheelock quarterly meeting in 
Sutton, Vt. in the meeting house built by Elder John Colby. As 
not more than half the people could be convened in the house, the 
speakers stood in the door. I felt especially assisted in preaching 
on the subject of our stewardship. During my stay in Sutton, I 
visited Deacon Thomas Colby, father of Elder J. Colby, who was 
very sick, and was thought to be near his end. I found him strong 
in the Lord, and very happy." 

After the close of the Wheelock quarterly meeting, Mr. Marks 
passed through New Hampshire to the state of Maine, in nearly 
an easterly direction, and attended the Farmington quarterly meet- 
ing and the Kennebec yearly meeting in Wilton; thence he 
went to Portland, preaching as usual, distributing books, and 
laboring to awaken an interest in the infant Book Establish- 
ment. He spent a few days in Portland to aid Mr. Beede 
in preparing the Free-will Baptist Register for 1833. Such 
had been the arrangement for the sale of the hymn book that 
the edition was exhausted in about six weeks, and Mr. Marks had 
been enabled to meet all his pecuniary engagements. He was 
cheered with many testimonials from intelligent brethren in favor 
of this new work, of which the following are specimens. 

" Randolph, Vt. 

The Hymn book exceeds my expectation, in the selection, 
arrangement, and execution of the work. With Pike, also, on 
the character of Christ, I am well pleased. Such productions, I 
think, will not fail to excite an interest in the Book Establishment, 
and produce among us that concert which is essential to our pros- 
perity. Yours, S. Robinson." " 

" Boston, Sept. 7. 

I am glad the hymn book takes so well, for it shows discernment 
and a good taste in our brethren. The book, as a whole, is not, in 
my opinion, excelled by any one now in use in its literary character; 
and its religious character accords fully with the sentiments of our 
denomination. I have no doubt but that it will be approved by 
every competent judge. John K. Simpson." 

Another edition of the hymn book being called for, it was deci- 
ded to issue it, and for this purpose Mr. Beede was again employed 
to go to Boston. So much expense had been incurred, and so 
much inconvenience suffered for want of a printing press, that 



DAVID MARKS. 303 

Mr. Marks (with the concurrence of the Publishing Commit- 
tee) was now bent on purchasing one, especially as he was anx- 
ious that a periodical, devoted to the interests of religion and 
the reforms of the day, should be issued by the Book Concern. 
He concluded, however, to delay any action till the meeting of the 
General Conference in October, and wait their advice. The con- 
ductors of the Morning Star had made proposals to sell to him, as 
the Agent of the denomination, their establishment ; and as the 
publishers and patrons of that paper were Free-will Baptists, and 
the issuing of another periodical might create a clashing of inter- 
ests, he thought seriously of accepting their proposals. The Morn- 
ing Star had been published for seven years and had about one thous- 
and and six hundred subscribers. He looked forward to the ensu- 
ing Conference with much interest, as a session that would do much 
for the prosperity of the denomination. He wrote to Mr. Beede 
on this subject, as follows: "The mission cause, support of the 
ministry, the Book Concern, its establishment, number of directors, 
its rules, a printing press, a periodical, &c. &c. are weighty sub- 
jects on which there should be mature deliberation and resolves at 
the next General Conference. I wish you would indite some reso- 
lutions on these subjects previous to the Conference. If brethren 
of piety and talent would do this, it would greatly facilitate busi- 
ness and save precious time." 

During the remainder of September, Mr. Marks preached in 
several towns in the southwestern part of Maine, and eastern part 
of New Hampshire, attended the Maine Western yearly meeting 
at Parsonsfield, and the ministers' conference of the Sandwich 
quarterly meeting in Holderness. The latter met for the purpose 
of discussing the Unitarian views of the character of Christ, and 
the doctrine of the annihilation of the wicked, there being a few 
members of the conference supposed to believe these sentiments. 
The discussion continued three days, and resulted in the following 
resolves. " That we agree with the report of the General Confer- 
ence on the character of Christ — that the souls of the wicked are 
in a state of punishment between death and the judgment — that 
the punishment of the wicked is without end." 

During this period, Mr. Marks received a letter from Mr. Beede, 
from which the following is taken. 

"Boston, Sept. 19, 1832. 
* My views upon the various subjects about 

which we have conversed so much, are far from being those of edu- 
cation. If they were, I should be a blind sectarian. They have 
been formed from careful research, meditation, and prayer. My 
object has been to know the truth, not to find this, that, or the oth- 
er opinion supported. To get a knowledge of our own nature and 



304 MEMOIRS OF 

faculties, sufficiently to distinguish how much of our religious creed, 
attachments, and preferences to particular modes and forms, is the 
offspring of prejudice, education, or ignorance, and how much is 
the offspring of God's truth, requires an extensive philosophical 
study of the physical, intellectual, and moral powers of man, with 
all the candor and humility that a heart filled with God's grace can 
give us. The spirit of a man only knows the things of a man ; 
but if the things of a man are not studied by him, he ever remains 
ignorant of his own nature, and unless he has much fervent charity, 
he becomes a bigot rather than a Christian. That man who has 
become well acquainted with his own intellectual and moral pow- 
ers, is in a suitable state of preparation, through the illuminating 
power of God's Spirit, to understand God's truth. None others 
can consistently hold it without mixture with prejudice and imper- 
fection. A man may have the heart of a saint with the judgment 
partially of an idiot. He may possess all holiness of heart, and 
yet, through prejudice, hold doctrines contrary to God, and that 
would lead others to ruin. Hence the propriety of serving God, 
with body, soul, and spirit ; of employing all the capacities of mind 
as well as of our wills and bodies, in keeping his commands. But, 
my brother, I acknowledge myself to be very deficient as to serv- 
ing God in any way as I ought. I am too often under the influ- 
ence of pride, ignorance and sloth. So far as you have seen me 
wrong, I wish you to reprove me. * * * * 

From twelve to twenty persons have died here with the cholera. 
I have just returned from a walk taken to inspect the district, 
where the pestilence has principally appeared. The street [Elli- 
ot] is the most noted for prostitution of any in Boston. It is low, 
wet, and every thing about it appears filthy. I think they might 
honestly have the cholera, or some other pestilence, without its be- 
ing communicated from abroad. * * 

Yours in love, 

S. Beede." 

In the early part of October, Mr. Marks attended the Vermont 
yearly meeting in Cabot: thence, preaching daily, he went to Mer- 
edith, N. H. where the General Conference opened its sixth session, 
October 10, and to which he had again been appointed a delegate 
by the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. The Conference took 
high ground on the various subjects brought before them. They 
resolved themselves into a temperance society, appointed a Board 
for Foreign Missions, arid a board of Trustees for the Parsonsfield 
Seminary. As there had been much misrepresentation of the sen- 
timents of Free-will Baptists, which, in some places, had been a 
barrier to their usefulness, the Conference decided that a Treatise 
should be prepared, embodying the general views and practice of 



DAVID MARKS. 305 

Free-will Baptists, and presented to the next General Conference 
for their approval. The Conference highly approbated their Book 
Agent " for his faithfulness and ability in conducting the business 
in all its parts," re-appointed him Agent, advised the purchase of 
the Morning Star, and added three more to the Publishing Com- 
mittee, viz. Hosea Quinby, Silas Curtis, D. P. Cilley. 

The following particulars relative to the purchase of the print- 
ing establishment, are taken from an article Mr. Marks addressed 
to Free-will Baptists through the Star. 

" As Agent for the Conference, I have ventured to become per- 
sonally responsible for the payment of about $3700 in the pur- 
chase of the Morning Star, in order that this establishment may 
become the property of the denomination, and this periodical be 
under its direction. The debts for which I was personally respon- 
sible for the Book Concern at the time of this purchase, were 
about $2000 ; so that now I am bound for the payment of nearly 
86000 for the denomination, and if circumstances should be favor- 
able, so that I can with the utmost diligence meet these engage- 
ments, then whatever profits may have arisen will belong to the 
denomination ; for I have given an instrument according to law, 
binding myself, heirs, &c, to deliver this property to the Trustees 
of the Conference — but, on the other hand, if pestilence should 
put an end to business, if any unforeseen losses should accrue, or 
the influence of enemies interfere, or if the indifference of breth- 
ren should prevent success, if these, or any other misfortunes, 
should blast iny hopes, and render payment impossible — then I 
shall be exposed to all the afflictions of a failure, and sustain the 
loss of all my own property, without the least ground of redress 
from any source, except it be from the good feelings of the denom- 
ination to which I belong. It has been with trembling, and after 
many prayers and tears, that I have taken upon me these respon- 
sibilities. I would have preferred to delay the purchase of the 
printing establishment, until the funds of the Book Concern should 
be sufficient to purchase one, without contracting a debt, but 
circumstances were such that it was thought the longer the pur- 
chase was delayed, the greater would be the difficulty with which 
it would be effected. The hope, therefore, that every brother will 
lend a helping hand, and that by gaining this establishment for the 
denomination, there will be laid a permanent foundation for the 
spread of religious knowledge, by which hundreds of churches will be 
benefited, and thousands of souls converted, has induced me to en- 
ter cheerfully into these engagements. " But," said a brother since 
I took upon me these obligations, " Brother Marks, I fear you are 
leaving the word of God to serve tables." The answer I gave 
that brother, I would give to all my friends who have similar fears. 
26* 



806 MEMOIRS OF 

The service of tables is the procuring of necessaries for the desti- 
tute. Now, so far from leaving the word of God to do this, I have 
disregarded, to a considerable degree, my temporal interest, and 
an easy manner of living, for the sole purpose of publishing the 
word of God, and this in such a way as to lay a foundation to en- 
able others to publish it when I am dead. I do believe, if it shall 
please God to bless my labors to the success of this design, I shall 
thereby be made instrumental, in the end, of converting ten times 
as many souls, as I could by any other course. Again, another 
objects : " This work is good and important ; but may be attended 
to by others, and you may devote your whole time to preaching." 
I have but one work, and this is the publishing of the gospel by 
every means possible, and I believe there is no way that I can be 
more useful, than the one in which I am engaged. The es- 
tablishment of a well regulated Book Concern, on a permanent ba- 
sis, is a task attended with no small difficulty by any denomination. 
Many attempts have been made, and few have succeeded to any 
extent. Indeed I know of none except the Methodist Book Con- 
cern, and that has been favored with great advantages. * * 

D. Marks. 



CHAPTER XXV. 

Toiir to New York and Upper Canada, return to New England, 
another tour to New York, labors in New England till Septem- 
ber, 1835, return to New York, journey to Upper Canada. 

Journal. " At the close of the General Conference, I set my 
face towards New York, accompanied by my companion. We had 
now been in New England more than two yeats ; and, for the 
spread of 'the gospel, had been situated like certain preachers that 
lived in Asia eighteen hundred years ago, " having no certain abid- 
ing place." On the way, we attended the New Durham quarterly 
meeting in Canterbury ; the brethren gave me the most liberal 
contribution I had ever received. In Fishersfield, I had an in- 
terview with Elder Timothy Morse. [Elder Morse had been a 
very successful preacher, and was cotemporary with Randall. Ed.] 
The June previous, I was much struck with a remark he made as 
he arose to preach. " Brethren," said he, " I have come to finish 
up my work. I shall never attend our yearly meeting again, or 
preach to you any more." His sermon was more like the last 
warning of a faithful minister, than like usual preaching. Still I 
could not then think he was about to die, as his appearance did not 



DAVID MARKS. 307 

betray much ill health. But now, his pale countenance witnessed 
with his testimony that his end was nigh. He was sitting in a 
chair, with a staff in his hand, just able to walk about the house. 
Said he, " I have finished my work, and am almost home, and all I 
fear, is, that I shall commit sin in my anxiety to be gone." He 
exhorted me to continue steadfast, and expressed great comfort in 
the reflection that he had preached plain truth in the simplicity of 
the gospel, witnessing day and night against the spirit and pride of 
the world. He said he had felt great satisfaction in seeing the 
establishment of a Book Concern, and rejoiced that the denomination 
was furnished with such an excellent hymn book. I felt very sol- 
emn as I took my leave, being satisfied that his abundant and faith- 
ful labors were done. 

Sabbath, October 21,1 preached in Windsor, Vt., and during the 
week proceeded to Russia, N. Y. where we were very courteously 
received by the Free-communion Baptists. Sabbath, Oct, 28, 1 had 
the privilege of preaching Christ to them. Leaving Russia, I attended 
meetings with the churches in Fabius and Spafforcl. In the latter 
place, there had been considerable departure from the faith, in em- 
bracing Mormonism. Consequently, the exposure of this delusion 
was the subject of discourse. If we were correctly informed, the 
Mormons had gathered a church of about forty members, made up 
mostly of Methodists, Presbyterians, and Free-will Baptists. Nov. 
2, we arrived at my father's in Tyre, (formerly a part of Junius,) 
where we met a very affectionate reception. After having a sol- 
emn interview with my youngest brother in an adjacent town, who 
was thought to be lying at the point of death, we continued our 
journey to Canandaigua. A revival was progressing here, and 
within a few months, more than one hundred and fifty souls had 
been added to the Lord. We remained a few days, and had heav- 
enly seasons in the worship of God. In this time I had the privi- 
lege of baptizing my brother next younger than myself, and my 
only sister. 

Tuesday, Nov. 13, we left Canandaigua on a tour to Upper Cana- 
da, and on arriving at Rochester, were courteously received by Mr. 
Graham, formerly a resident in Canada. This gentleman contin- 
ued with his family in this city, during the raging of the late pes- 
tilence. While surrounded by the overflowing scourge, Mrs. Gra- 
ham stood by the bed of the sick and dying, to administer to their 
wants. It was thought more dangerous to be with the dead than 
with the sick ; still when she heard that five had died in a neigh- 
boring house, and that the body of the last was now left alone, she 
hastened to the deserted dwelling, and was much affected by the 
silent gloom that reigned in this house of death. She returned 
home, was soon seized by the cholera, and her case considered 



308 MEMOIRS OF 

hopeless. She was composed, for her trust was in God. Med- 
icine had the desired effect, her spasms ceased, and she recovered. 
Thursday, Nov. 15, I attended a meeting in Clarkson. The 
church was enjoying a revival, and several presented themselves 
for prayer. The Sabbath following, I preached in Lewiston ; next 
day, crossed the Niagara, and arrived at St. Catharines, wet and 
weary. Here we met friends who had suffered the severest be- 
reavements by the cholera. Leaving St. Catharines, we proceed- 
ed to Hamilton, a small village near the head of lake Ontario, where 
we were informed that the pestilence suddenly made its appearance 
without any known medium of introduction, and soon forty-two 
were hurried to eternity. Nov. 22, we met a most affectionate 
welcome at the parental home in Zorra, and our hearts were filled 
with thankfulness for that guardian care and protection that had at- 
tended us through the fatigues of a long tedious journey, amidst 
the rains of autumn, and the deep mud, that in this section of coun- 
try makes travelling at this season extremely wearisome both to 
man and beast. I spent ten days in this town and in Oxford, 
preached twelve sermons in different neighborhoods, and enjoyed 
some very comforting seasons. In the latter town we visited the be- 
reaved family of the late Col. C. Ingersoll. He officiated at our mar- 
riage ceremony, and for several years was a member of parliament. 
In a former visit, more than two years since, we were affectionate- 
ly received in his family, and the sun of fortune shone brightly on 
all their earthly prospects. Mr. Ingersoll did not profess to be a 
Christian, but listened with complaisance to my entreaties that he 
would choose the better part, sometimes dropped a tear, and as the 
claims of the gospel were urged upon him, confessed his duty. 
When the cholera unsheathed its sword on this continent, he invit- 
ed his friends, whose situation exposed them to the pestilence, to 
take refuge in his retired dwelling, little thinking it would be the 
scene of its ravages. He had continued his neglect of God, till a 
few weeks previous to his death, when he became very thoughtful, 
and built, at his own expense, a small, convenient house for public 
worship. He finally became very solemnly impressed with the 
idea that he was going to die, and decided to submit to the Savior. 
Accordingly, he wrote his will, and felt that his peace was made 
with God. Soon after, there were a few cases of cholera in his 
neighborhood. Next Mr. Ingersoll' s son, aged thirteen years, was 
seized, and soon afterwards Mr. Ingersoll. The son diecl at eight 
in the morning, was buried at twelve, A. M., and the father at 
eight in the evening, and at the lonely hour of midnight was laid 
in the grave by the side of his son. He was composed and happy, 
and had his senses till a short time before his death. ,, 



DAVID MARKS. 309 

Mr. Marks left Oxford on Monday, Dec. 4, to visit the Free-will 
Baptist churches in the towns west. Some particulars are detail- 
ed in the following letter. 

"London, December 12, 1832. 
My dear wife, 

* On the day I left my " world of comfort," I 
preached in Westminster. Though thickly settled, there was 
scarcely a professor of religion in the neighborhood. Still, the 
people, by their solemnity and attention to the word, manifested 
that they were not indifferent to " life's great concern." Tuesday 
evening, I had a meeting in Nissouri, and the day following, I went 
to the north part of London, accompanied by two brethren. We 
had to swim our horses over the north branch of the Thames ; I got 
wet and was much fatigued, and next morning found that my expos- 
ures, together with improper food, had greatly debilitated my stomach, 
so that I have since been able to retain little food except gruel and 
broiled fresh meat As a consequence, my strength is considerably 
reduced. I have had blessed meetings with the church in London. 
Several of the unconverted in the vicinity have covenanted with 
me to seek the Lord. A new church of twenty-one members has 
been gathered in the east part of the town. In Southwold I found 
the state of religion low — the church had had little preaching for 
many months. Our meetings, however, were considerably refreshing. 
There are now five churches of our denomination, all situated 
within forty miles of each other. I am of opinion that they might 
be profitably organized into a quarterly meeting. I am to preach 
again in this place, and then in Westminster, on my return to Ox- 
ford. 

In general, I have felt comforted by the presence of our dear 
Redeemer, but I feel the need of being more devoted to Him. O 
that I were more spiritual, more humble, and that my faith in God 
was stronger. This morning I felt depressed, under a sense of my 
unworthiness, and entered into a covenant to be more faithful. We 
have but little while to stay in this vale of tears, and my prayer to 
God is, that the interests of Zion, the salvation of souls, and the 
glory of God, may be our only object and aim ; in this way, we 
shall enjoy peace of conscience, peace with God, and we shall en- 
joy even this life better than it could be possibly enjoyed otherwise. 
Sometimes the thought occurs, that we may not meet again in this 
world ; yes, many friends have parted even indifferently for a 
much less time, who never met again on earth ; but — thank kind 
Heaven for one tiling — while we have been together, we have liv- 
ed in the love of God, and should our parting be a final one, the 
one that shall go will be the gainer, and the one that stays will have 
an Almighty Protector, and an eternal Friend. how good it is 



810 MEMOIRS OF 

to feel and know, that for us " to live is Christ, and to die would be 
gain ;" therefore let us patiently submit to God in all things, be 
thankful for his mercies, and prepared for the ills of life, which 
are inseparable from this mortal state. My love to our parents, 
brothers, sister, and friends. Farewell. 

Your affectionate husband, 

David Marks. 

Journal. " Dec. 23. We bade our dear parents farewell, and 
commenced our return to Canandaigua. I preached in the Meth- 
odist chapel in St. Catharines, and was abundantly favored. The 
people treated me very affectionately. Dec. 29 and 30, we attend- 
ed the Monroe quarterly meeting in Clarkson, which was followed 
by a revival. Recently in Clarkson village, more than one hun- 
dred had turned to the Lord. Jan. 2 — 8, 1833, I spent in Canan- 
daigua, preaching daily, and rejoiced to see some fruit of my la- 
bors. Jan. 9, I set out for the Benton quarterly meeting in Mid- 
dlesex ; such was the state of the roads that I was nearly ten 
hours travelling ten miles, but by industry and perseverance, I 
succeeded in getting through the next day. A profitable season 
was enjoyed, and I was permitted to greet several of my earliest 
Christian friends. Leaving Middlesex, I went to China and attend- 
ed the Genesee quarterly meeting, (formerly called Bethany.) On 
the Sabbath, the congregation was large, and not having a conven- 
ient house for worship, three separate meetings were held. In this 
place, the Mormon delusion had ensnared several who seemed to 
have lost the power to reason. In vain do the Christians of dif- 
ferent denominations think that their many conclusive arguments 
will prevent the spread of this delusion. Alas ! there are thou- 
sands who have no taste for reading any thing till the Mormon bi- 
ble comes, and then they are so ignorant as to think it all wonder- 
ful, miraculous, and purely from God. If their leaders find any 
difficulty in persuading them to do any thing they please, there is 
one way in which they are sure of success. Like Mahomet, they 
come with a new command from Heaven, exactly suited to their 
wishes, and their ends are accomplished. 

From Jan. 21 to Feb. 9, I preached daily among the churches 
of the Genesee quarterly meeting, and labored, as opportunity of- 
fered, to enlist their efforts in the Book Concern, foreign missions, 
and the temperance cause. I next attended the Erie quarterly 
meeting, at Little Valley. The reports from these churches were 
refreshing, though there was a great cry among destitute churches 
for help. The meetings of worship were very much crowded, and 
several came forward for prayer. The Erie quarterly meeting 
has now twenty-three churches, and only six ordained preachers, 



DAVID MARKS. 311 

two of whom are laid aside on account of sickness. Two years 
previous, a travelling ministry was established in this quarterly 
meeting. Revivals spread under their labors in every direction : 
nine churches were gathered, and three preachers ordained. One 
of the ministers baptized more than a hundred. Leaving Little 
Valley, I met thirteen appointments, and, Feb. 27, arrived in Can- 
andaigua." 

The discussion of slavery had at this time just commenced, and 
the Colonization Society was enjoying the confidence of many true 
friends of the slave. Mr. Marks wrote thus on this subject, in re- 
ply to a letter received from Elder Elias Hutchins, who was then 
in North Carolina. Elder Hutchins' letter was written during the 
prevalence of a dreadful panic in a portion of the south, occasion- 
ed by an insurrection of a few slaves in Virginia, led on by Nat 
Turner. 

" February 15, 1833. 

Dear Brother, 

* * * As to what you write of slavery, it is true 
the evil is great, and I know not what will be the result more than 
you do ; but I think, we, as a nation, may boast in vain of free- 
dom, while we hold our fellow man in slavery. The slave trade 
has led to the making of laws of a piece with it, and this iniquity 
is established by law. Connected with slavery, is the expediency 
of keeping the poor creatures in ignorance ; and a multitude of 
evils follow of necessity. But I believe God will overrule, and 
these slavish bands will yet be broken off. May that blessed day 
be hastened. As to the danger that you and sister Hutchins are 
in, from the rising of the blacks, I hope you will not let your heart 
be troubled, for you know in whom you have believed : and con- 
soling will be the reflection, that not a hair of your heads can fall 
to the ground without the notice of your Heavenly Father. May 
a sense of the protecting care of Him who delivered you from the 
tempestuous deep during your voyage, comfort your heart, and 
keep your soul in perfect peace. But as we know not when, nor 
how, it will please our Heavenly Father to call us home, it should 
be our daily labor to be ever ready, so that should the call be Eke" 
the thief in the night, we may be ready. 

I believe a Society that is very popular has been for some time 
in successful operation for the removal of free blacks to a new col- 
ony in Africa. Some of the first men in our nation have been ac- 
tive in its movements, and may we not hope that such Societies 
will yet banish slavery from our shores. But if the rising of the 
blacks is the worst difficulty that afflicts you in North Carolina, it 
cannot be the only one that must seriously affect the people of that 



312 MEMOIRS OF 

state. The course pursued and still persisted in by South Caro- 
lina, I think must agitate the public mind in the vicinity of your 
travels.* What is this sad affair about to amount to ? In this 
section of country, the people are generally much incensed against 
the movements of South Carolina, and a spirit of war is so much 
awakened, that, I am sorry to say, many seem to thirst for blood, 
and even are anxious to go to the south to avenge, with the sword, 
the treasonable movements of the Legislature of that state. While 
other nations have been in commotion, ours has long enjoyed peace, 
and has little appreciated the value of its blessings. I fear our 
sins, our dreadful sins, have provoked the Almighty, and that our 
nation must receive of the cup of his indignation. * 

My health is very poor : dyspepsia and other diseases render 
my life quite uncertain. But the Lord reigneth. Glory be to 
God. Farewell. Your brother in Christ, 

David Marks. 

Journal. " In the early part of March, I attended a few meet- 
ings in Scriba, and baptized some. The brethren were steadfast, 
and we had heavenly seasons. I spent the remainder of the 
month with other churches in the Ontario and Benton quarterly 
meetings. My dyspeptic difficulties had severely afflicted me 
through the winter, and in the hope of being benefited, we con- 
cluded to " keep house" a few days in our own little home in Can- 
andaigua, that I might try the effect of a regular diet, and daily 
manual labor, at the same time preaching less, and relinquishing 
study. My health under these circumstances improved rapidly, 
and I was soon enabled to labor and attend to business sometimes 
twenty hours in twenty-four. Blessed be God, for all his mercies. 

April 25 — 28, I attended the Monroe quarterly meeting in By- 
ron. It was a time of mourning, for the conference had before 
them fair examples of the spirit and effects of false doctrines. 
What is called Campbellism (being understood to be the opinions 
of Alexander Campbell and Walter Scott,) had entangled the 
minds of some of the preachers. A public discussion was held, in 
which one, who had embraced these views, argued that the Holy 
Spirit does not influence or strive with the world — that his mission 
was, and is confined to the church, that none have been ministers 
of Christ except such as were sent personally by him, — that all 
true ministers in this day, are sent by the church to convert the 
world, by compelling them, with sound and unanswerable argu- 
ments, to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God — that the 
Scriptures, abstract from the Spirit, are our only guide — that the 
only things necessary for one to become a Christian are, to assent 

* Reference is had to the nullification acts of South Carolina. 



DAVID MARKS. 313 

to the truth of the facts contained in the Scriptures, reform, and 
be immersed in water — that assent to the truth, and a purpose of 
heart to obey the gospel, are sufficient qualifications for baptism — 
that baptism is regeneration, and by it one is born again, and in- 
ducted into the kingdom of God, and has the promise of the Holy 
Spirit — that repentance and faith, without immersion, do not enti- 
tle one to the promise of the Spirit. On this occasion, I believe 
the Lord especially assisted me in defending his truth, and in ex- 
posing the fallacy of these views, which rob Christianity of its life 
and soul. 

After attending a few meetings in the vicinity of Byron and 
Canandaigua, we bade our dear western brethren farewell, and 
commenced our return to New England, having previously notified 
a line of appointments, May 7 — 14, I preached with several 
churches, and attended a session of the Benton quarterly meeting 
at Middlesex. Some of these were refreshing seasons, and the 
churches were prospering. May 15, I preached in Tyre, (former- 
ly a part of Junius,) the place where I commenced a religious life. 
Here I was filled with joy, for many who used to be scoffers of re- 
ligion were now happy converts. A revival had almost entirely 
changed the state of society, and rent the sad gloom that once veil- 
ed the face of this people. Indeed, this whole section had been 
wonderfully blessed. In the month of March, protracted meetings 
commenced in Auburn (a few miles from Tyre) with the Metho- 
dists and Presbyterians, which continued five weeks, in which 
time, as we were informed, six hundred joined each society, making 
twelve hundred that in this short period professed to turn to God. 

Leaving Tyre, we proceeded on our way to New England, but 
met with difficulties occasioned by a late flood. The turnpike, near 
the Montezuma marshes, for about three-fourths of a mile, was 
overflowed with running water, from one to two feet in depth. 
When we had passed this almost " ocean for a highway," we hoped 
we had escaped the greatest danger in our journey ; but, the next 
day, soon after leaving Weedsport, before we were aware, we 
found ourselves surrounded by water, and the road entirely wash- 
ed away. The only alternative was to proceed. Our horses and 
carriage were washed nearly under by a heavy current and some 
damages sustained. Through a kind Providence, our lives were 
preserved, and after a few hours, we were able again to go for- 
ward. Sabbath, May 19, I preached in Spafford and Fabius. In 
the former place, Mormonism continued to bear some sway, though 
its adherents had been divided among themselves. Pursuing our 
journey, I preached in Eaton, Hamilton, Trenton, Russia, Nor- 
way, N. Y., in Arlington and Windsor, Vt., and on the 8th of 
June, arrived at Gilford, N. H. 
27 



314 MEMOIRS OF 

June 9 and 10, the New Hampshire yearly meeting was held in 
Gilford, and its interest was greatly heightened by the presence of 
Mr. Amos Sutton, General Baptist missionary from Orissa. His 
health having failed, physicians advised a voyage to a northern 
climate. He decided to improve the opportunity to visit America, 
and, if possible, get some missionaries to return with him. His 
pale, emaciated countenance gave an additional interest to his ap- 
pearance. On the Sabbath, it was judged that about 3000 were 
present ; and as Mr. Sutton commenced speaking, every eye was 
fixed. Said he, " As I arise to speak, I seem to see the seventy 
millions of India, with bended knees and tearful eyes, saying, 
' Sir, plead our cause — plead it effectually/ My residence is 
near the temple of Jugurnath, which signifies the Lord of the 
world. There are in India thirty- three millions of gods. There 
are more missionaries sent out from Jugurnath to invite the people 
to make pilgrimage to this temple, than there are from all the 
Christian world. I have seen two hundred and fifty thousand peo- 
ple congregated at once at the temple of Jugurnath, and have also 
seen the poor worshippers throw themselves under the wheels of 
the idol's car, where they were crushed to death ! mashed in pieces, 
and as the spokes, which were made to project through the felloes, 
fell upon them, I have seen their blood and brains spirt in every 
direction !" Mr. Sutton exhibited a number of idols : Jugurnath, 
their principal god, was a strange and ugly looking image. He 
stated some of the arguments by which his deluded worshippers 
proved his divinity. One was, his ears came down to his shoul- 
ders ; another, that he could sit in the position represented by his 
image. [The position of a tailor.] Another argument in proof of 
his divinity was, that from the top of his head there arose a kind 
of spire, which they supposed to be the projection of the rays of 
glory. He related many affecting anecdotes, among which was the 
following : 

" One day, as I went out into a neighboring village to preach, I 
saw a woman with an infant, apparently about eight months old, 
lying under a tree, in the agonies of the cholera. She was from 
upper Hindoostan, and had probably been deserted by her friends. 
I gave her some medicine, but she soon died. The poor child 
seemed almost famished. I tried to get some one in the village to 
take it, but met with the uniform answer, " Why, let it die, it is 
only a girl." After about two hours' effort, I succeeded in getting 
a tea-cup half full of milk. As the little creature saw me approach 
her, she stretched out her little hands towards me, as if she would 
say, * Sir, have pity upon me, for if you do not, there is not one in 
this wide world that will.' I could not resist this touching appeal. 
I took the child home to my wife ; we adopted her as our own, 



DAVID MARKS. 315 

and have brought her with us to this country. She is now an inter- 
esting little girl, about five years old." Mr. Sutton's delineations 
were so graphic that he seemed to remove his hearers to the seat 
of idolatry, and to cause them to see with their own eyes some of 
the sorrows of those who hasten after other gods, while tears, sighs, 
and even shrieks, spoke the anguish of many hearts. At the close 
of the meeting, a collection of one hundred dollars was taken for 
the cause of missions. How criminal have been our ignorance and 
neglect of this holy enterprise, and how wonderful that providence 
that has illumined our darkness. 

Monday, June 11, we left Gilford for Limerick, Me. ; and, on 
the way, spent a night with brother Hosea Quinby, preceptor of 
Parsonsfield Seminary. The prospects of the school were good, 
and some more than sixty students were in attendance. June 13 
and 14, I met with the Publishing Committee. The Morning Star 
had been enlarged without addition to the price, — the subscription 
list had been much increased, and Samuel Beede appointed one of 
the assistant editors. My time, until the 22d of June, was closely 
occupied in Limerick and vicinity, in preaching and attending to 
business for the Book Concern. During this time, I had a very 
interesting interview with brother Sutton, and some conversation 
about publishing for him a Narrative of the Orissa Mission. 

June 22. Having been urgently requested, I went to New Dur- 
ham to stay a few days, and at least sigh over the desolations of 
Zion in the place where our denomination took its rise. The 
winds of doctrine for years had blasted the hopes of the gospel la- 
borer, and Universalism had taken many in its snare. Though 
the state of the church in this place could not be compared to the 
temporal desolations that have succeeded in the land where the 
gospel of Christ was first preached, yet, in general, there appeared 
little activity and holy zeal, compared with what we might expect 
in a place where Randall labored so much, and where his sleeping 
dust reposes. Alas ! every age of the church has presented a prac- 
tical proof that this is a backsliding world. I held a few meetings ; 
solemnity clothed the congregations, and there appeared to be deep 
searchings of heart. Sabbath, June 30, I preached three times to 
a very large assembly. In the last meeting, the Spirit of the Lord 
was in our midst like the early rain. Several came forward for 
prayer, five of whom, in a most affecting manner, prayed for mer- 
cy. One of these soon rejoiced, and another, with great anguish 
of soul, confessed that for two years he had tried to believe Uni- 
versalism ; but now he knew it would not do, and in the presence 
of several strong advocates of this system, he earnestly prayed God 
to sweep away this refuge of lies. This meeting continued with 
much interest for five hours. The five ensuing days, I visited 



316 MEMOIRS OF 

from house to house, and attended meetings. Numbers came for* 
ward for prayer, and several were converted. 

July 6 and 7, I attended meetings at Great Falls and Dover. 
At the latter place I was greatly blessed in preaching from Phil. 
5:6 — 8. " Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Je- 
sus," &c. Never had I felt so great a weight of the subject as I 
did at this time. The love of Christ in laying aside God-like 
form and riches, that we, poor rebels, might be rich, appeared be- 
fore me with inexpressible majesty, and the mandate of the Scrip- 
ture, " Let this mind be in you" came to my soul so full of mean- 
ing, that I was filled with astonishment that Christians could be 
contented to do so little for the advancement of the Redeemer's 
kingdom. I felt so much convicted by the truth I had preached, 
that I determined to contribute more liberally to missions of the 
little over which God had made me steward. During the week I 
held several meetings. 

Sabbath, July 14. At an early hour we were visited by a thun- 
der shower, and a beautiful rainbow, which rendered the morning 
very majestic. Soon afterwards I learned that three persons were 
killed with lightning in New Hampton. On this day, I held five 
meetings, and baptized a young brother just converted from sin 
and Universalism. He came out of the water praising God, and 
so solemn was the scene that many wept. 

Having agreed with Mr. Sutton to publish a history of the Gen- 
eral Baptist Mission in Orissa, I went to Sandwich, Monday, July 
15, and engaged brother Beede to go to Boston and superintend 
its publication. Thence I returned to Limerick, and attended to 
important business connected with the Book Concern. Sabbath, 
July 21, I preached to a large assembly in Alton. Great attention 
was paid to the word, and fourteen came forward for prayer. July 
28, I preached in New Durham, from Luke : " Cut it down, why 
cumbereth it the ground ?" It was a solemn, weeping season. 
Five penitents continued kneeling and praying for about an hour, 
as though loth to leave till they had evidence of their submission 
to God. 

Since my return to New England, my New York correspondents 
had continued to inform me of the havoc Campbellism was making 
in the churches of the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. Until 
the introduction of these sentiments, there had been the most hap- 
py union in this branch of the Free-will Baptist denomination. 
Now the yearly meeting was in a very distracted condition. Four 
ministers of considerable influence, had embraced these views, and 
had zealously propagated them. My mind had become so pain- 
fully exercised, that I had concluded it was my duty to attend the 
next session of the yearly meeting, which was to be held the ensu- 



DAVID MARKS. 317 

ing August, five hundred miles distant. Still there were obstacles 
in my way. I was incurring new responsibilities in the publica- 
tion of works in the press ; the expenses of my journey would 
amount to about fifty dollars, and it was a critical time to leave. I 
had scarcely made this conclusion, when I received a letter from 
the Monroe quarterly meeting, requesting me to attend the ensu- 
ing session of the yearly meeting, and offering to bear my expen- 
ses. As I had been stigmatized by one of the leaders of this 
schism, as the " woidd-be-pope" I thought the presence and coun- 
sel of some of our older eastern ministers would be a blessing to 
the yearly meeting. Accordingly I went to Strafford, and, with 
much entreaty, persuaded Elder Place to accompany me, paying 
him $10 to employ a man on his farm during his absence, and ob- 
ligating myself to bear his expenses, or see that they were borne.* 

Thursday, Aug. 1, I went to New Market, and met a very af- 
fectionate reception from Elder D. P. Cilley, who was laboring in 
this place. In the evening, I enjoyed a good season in dispensing 
the word of life, but I understood that several who had supposed 
the minister would preach so as to electrify them, went away dis- 
appointed. During the three days following, I preached in the 
same place. The Sabbath was a day of intense interest. My soul 
was unusually enlarged in speaking, while deep solemnity clothed 
the audience. Many tears were shed, and there appeared a pros- 
pect that good would follow. At the close of the meeting, brother 
Cilley baptized five happy converts, nearly all of whom came out 
of the water shouting and praising God. The large attentive as- 
sembly on the banks of the stream, seemed much affected. A re- 
vival followed, and, I was informed, that two days after this meet- 
ing, twenty were converted. The week following, I spent in Lim- 
erick, making preparation for my journey. Sabbath, Aug. 11, I 
preached three sermons at Great Falls, and the " word of the Lord 
was like fire shut up in my bones." 

The location of the printing office at Limerick, Me. which was 
an inland town, without a bindery, and visited by the mail only 
twice a week, subjected Mr. Marks, as Agent, to much expense 
and perplexity, and he had for some time been decided to effect, if 
possible, its removal. But wishing to avoid censure, he concluded 
to submit the matter to the ensuing General Conference. He 
wrote Mr. Beede, who was still in Boston, on this and other sub- 
jects, as follows : 

"August 9, 1833. 

My dear brother, 

* About 4500 copies of the Scriptural Catechism 
are published, but we have almost endless perplexities in publish- 

* A little of this expense was defrayed by brethren, but Mr. Marks paid most of it. 

27* 



318 MEMOIRS OF 

ing books in the country. Just to print this little work, we have 
had to send a man twice to Portland, [30 miles] and in one in- 
stance, he had to stay five days, waiting for paper. Brother Burr 
and myself are about discouraged. We think the removal of the 
office the only remedy ; the sooner the better, unless we should in- 
cur censure. I think it should be removed by the advice of Con- 
ference, as soon as the first of November, either to Dover or Bos- 
ton. 

July 30, I attended the first meeting of the corporation of the 
Strafford Academy. The Legislature has granted the corporation 
the privilege of holding $15,000 without taxation. About $1000 have 
been subscribed, and the building is to be enclosed and fitted for a 
school by the 15th of October. I feel deeply the want of a systematic, 
theological course of study. You have been instrumental, in some 
measure, in correcting my opinions on different points, and for 
this I thank you. I hope you will continue your favors, and give 
me your advice with regard to the course of study most advisable 
for me to pursue, the time best to spend in it, &c. &c, and, withal, 
pray for me, that I may ever be humble, like a little child, and that 
I may be filled with the Spirit of the Lord. For some months 
past,. I have had such a sense of the imperfect state of the church, 
the lack of energy in its ministers and membership, that my heart 
has bled at every pore, until sometimes I have almost feared I 
should bleed to death. Do give me any advice you may see need- 
ful, with regard to my exertions for the service of Zion. I am 
willing, yes, it is my blessed privilege, to give all I have for the 
sanctification of the church and the salvation of the world. God 
has already made you instrumental of much good among us. May 
you keep very humble, live in the Spirit, and feel your dependence 
on our Heavenly Father, that your usefulness may abound. I 
feel my spirit greatly stirred up, and pressed to write on different 
topics in the Star. I have written down about fifty subjects, on 
which I wish I could write immediately. 

I have been well pleased in general with your articles in the 
Star. Some complain of your pointed pen and severe rebukes. 
* * With you, I am satisfied that our denom- 
ination needs a great reform : and may God give you faith, wis- 
dom, and success, as a reformer among us. Although, when I can- 
not see the propriety or usefulness of a measure, I must under- 
stand, and judge, and act for myself, I assure you, I will not de- 
sert you, so long as I am convinced that reform will be the effect 
of your labor, and thus long I shall be happy to be a co-worker 
with you. I have sometimes feared you would be discouraged and 
leave the denomination ; and then again, I have thought you 



DAVID MARKS. 319 

would be compelled to stay with us for conscience' sake, however 
much you may be grieved with our imperfections. * 

Farewell. Your brother in tribulation, D. Marks." 

Mr. Beede's reply contained the following : 

* * " I am glad to have you collect the objections you 
find brethren making to any thing of mine, and wish carefully to 
weigh them all. The welfare of our denomination lies near my 
heart. I am fully convinced, that unless a bold hand of reform 
and improvement is exerted, our prosperity cannot be secured. 
Slight exertions can accomplish nothing answerable to the crisis, 
because we need much change from long established practices, and 
in the face of determined opposition. With this view, I have pur- 
sued the course I have, in the Star, in perfect accordance with the 
instructions of my brethren of the Committee at their session in 
January last. My instructions were to exhibit Scripture doctrine. 
This I have endeavored to do, carefully withholding every thing 
offensive, which the crisis does not absolutely demand. I expect 
opposition — it cannot be otherwise. I look for many to be dissat- 
isfied — it must necessarily be. I do not intend to faint nor be in- 
timidated in a good cause, so long as I profess the name of Christ. 
But unless reform succeeds with a powerful hand, numbers of our 
intelligent members will leave, for their usefulness would, in their 
view, be more promising in some other denomination than ours. 
When I contemplate the pointed exhibitions of errors and sins, 
and the sharp reproofs for them, that are conspicuous in Christ's 
teaching addressed to the Jews — in the epistles to the Corinthians 
and Galatians (one of which reproofs was given to the inspired 
apostle, Peter) — in the epistles of James and Peter — and in those 
addressed to the seven churches of Asia — and w T hen I reflect that 
all these were addressed directly to the professed followers of God, 
or professed teachers of the people, and that too in a public man- 
ner ; and when I am also conscious, that the most useful and pious 
servants of the church in every denomination, present and past, 
have exposed the obvious sins and imperfections of their brethren, 
and sharply rebuked them before the world, my soul shudders that 
I have ventured forward no more boldly through the Star — and I 
tremble, I fear, for that temporizing, softened policy that is in so 
high esteem among us. Unless abandoned, it will eventually ruin 
us. * * * Yours in love, S. Beede." 

The following letter contains a few particulars connected with 
Mr. Marks' tour to New York to attend the Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting. 



320 MEMOIRS OP 

"Byron, August 26, 1833. 
My Dear Wife, 

* I met Elder Place at Alton, Tuesday, August 
12 ; next morning we set off, and Friday night, arrived at your 
brother's in Arlington, Vt., where we left our carriage and took the 
stage for Albany. Being detained two hours in Albany, we visit- 
ed the State House and City Hall, two very superb buildings. In 
the City Hall, we saw the most striking and solemn painting that 
I ever beheld. It was " Danby's Opening of the sixth seal" — the 
judgment day. Even the sight was truly awful. We did not see 
a smile among the visitants, and as for myself, I could not refrain 
from tears. The painting was ten feet by eight. First, there was 
a view of the sun turned to the blackest darkness, and the heavens 
wrapped in the most dismal gloom. In these clouds of darkness, 
there appeared streaks of lightning interspersed among their thick 
dark folds. Next, there was a column of light, incomparably 
brighter than any fire I ever saw, darting from the frowning heav- 
ens, representing the appearance of the Son of God not yet come 
in sight. In the middle of the view, the brightest fire was blazing, 
and flames were starting up behind the falling cities, and the crum- 
bling mountains tossing to and fro. All classes of men were in 
confusion ; a slave, almost naked, stood with broken manacles, 
reaching his hands toward heaven and looking upward, while kings 
lay helpless at his feet. Over the wreck of all created matter, a 
small, pure, unclouded cross personified that majesty which is be- 
yond all human power to conceive. But language fails to give a 
just representation. Please read the sixth chapter of Revelation, 
and picture to your imagination the most literal accomplishment 
of every word.* 

At Albany, we took the railroad for Schenectady. I must de- 
lay a particular description of this wonderful modern invention till 
I see you. It is a mode of travelling which I assure you exactly 
suits me. O, what facilities for spreading the gospel will railroads 
and steam navigation yet furnish. At Schenectady we took a tem- 
perance boat. Soon a man in tattered garments came on board, 
begging a free passage. In a few minutes, he took from his pock- 
et a bottle and drank. This made him very religious : he said he 
had had the good seed sown in his heart, and if he should drink 
ten thousand hogsheads of rum, it would not unchristianize him. 

* The public journals, both in England and America, were lavish in their encomiums 
of this celebrated painting. It was pronounced by some English judges, the greatest pic- 
ture of the kind ever spread on canvass ; and it was stated that " from the fame it gain- 
ed, his Majesty, George IV., desired to be the purchaser ; but this right was claimed by 
Wm. Beekford, Esq. of Fonthill Abbey, he having made previous application. The hon- 
orable members of the British Institution, being also excluded the privilege, presented the 
artist with three hundred guineas as a reward of his talent." En. 



DAYID MARKS. 321 

August 22, we arrived in Byron, met several ministers, and in 
the evening, I had a most refreshing time in preaching. The ses- 
sion of the yearly meeting commenced next morning. It was a 
very interesting though trying season. I think the object of our 
journey (the suppression of the spread of Campbellism among us) 
is accomplished ; but it will be some time before our western 
churches will recover from the shock they have received. Three 
ministers who have been active in the dissemination of these er- 
rors, are now disowned. It has been a painful ordeal. The year- 
ly meeting resolved itself into a temperance society, and the meet- 
ings of worship were encouraging. Sabbath evening, seventeen or 
eighteen presented themselves for prayer, and during the yearly 
meeting, two or three found peace in believing. 

Since I parted with you, I have thought of you much, and have 
missed you all the time, but have kept my mind so close to my 
studies, and to the duties before me, that I have had no time to 
give up to lonely feelings. When I reflect how evanescent are all 
the joys of this world, and how soon you, and I, and all our friends 
will be no more on the earth, and have no share in all that is done 
under the sun, O, how empty this world appears. Time gives 
pleasures for a few days — eternity takes us from them all. Time 
gives objects of pursuit — eternity rends us from them. In time, 
our friends give us comfort — in eternity, God will be our only 
fountain of happiness. O, my dear Marilla, may that Christian 
calmness, affection, faithfulness, and devotion, which have hitherto 
marked your conduct, and interwoven your soul with mine, mark 
your path till death. If you weep, may the Lord bottle your tears, 
and pour the sweet consolations of heaven into your cup. Fare- 
well. Your affectionate husband, D. Marks." 

Mr. Marks returned to New England the early part of Septem- 
ber, attended a " three days' meeting" in North wood, and preach- 
ed in several towns on his way to Limerick. He spent a few days 
in this tour, preparing his business for the inspection of the Pub- 
lishing Committee, who were soon to meet, and in making a report 
of the Book Concern affairs for the ensuing General Conference. 
The latter part of September he again wrote in his journal : 

" September 27, I attended the funeral of a woman in Acton, 
Me. who triumphed gloriously in her last conflict. The assembly 
was greatly melted by the truths presented, and my own soul deep- 
ly felt their power. The text was Job 14:12. " So man lieth 
down and riseth not : till the heavens be no more they shall not 
awake nor be raised out of their sleep." My propositions were 
as follows. 1. That sin is the original cause of death. 2. That 
though occasioned by transgression, God had appointed it in jus- 
tice, and for our good. 3. That through grace it is a part of the 



822 MEMOIRS OF 

Christian's treasure. 4. That the circumstances attendant on our 
dissolution are calculated deeply to impress the human mind. 5. 
That death is a state of sensibility to the soul. 6. That man shall 
live again. 7. That future existence will be infinitely joyous to 
the righteous, and sorrowful to the wicked. 8. That as we are 
forming characters for our eternal destiny, we should be careful 
how we live. 

September 30, I preached twice in Spring vale, and next day, 
met the Publishing Committee at Limerick. I found considerable 
sensitiveness existing in Limerick and vicinity about the proposed 
removal of the printing office. Slanderous reports were in circu- 
lation, designed to shake the public confidence in my integrity, and 
produce the impression that I intended to monopolize, for my own 
selfish purposes, all the property of the Book Concern. But " it is 
enough that the servant be as his lord. If they have called the 
Master of the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call 
them of his household?" 

October 9 — 15. I attended the seventh session of the General 
Conference in Strafford, Yt. as a delegate from the Holland Pur- 
chase yearly meeting. It was a very interesting time, and the busi- 
ness was transacted with more unanimity than on any former oc- 
casion. A delegate was received from the Free-communion Bap- 
tists in New York, and it was agreed to continue the correspond- 
ence with this body of Christians, hoping that we shall yet become 
one people. 

The Conference advised the removal of the printing office to 
Dover, re-appointed me Agent, and S. B. Dyer, S. Curtis, W. 
Burr, and D. P. Cilley, Publishing Committee, and agreed that we 
should be governed by the following rules. "1. It shall be the 
duty of the Book Agent to notify the Publishing Committee of 
their appointment, and call the first meeting of the Committee, which 
shall be within one month from the Conference. 2. He shall pro- 
vide the necessary buildings and utensils for the printing establish- 
ment, publish, and as far as practicable, make sales of all such 
books as the Committee shall direct ; collect all monies, and pay 
all debts ; provided, however, that whenever the Agent shall think 
the Committee require him to exceed the proper bounds in incur- 
ring expenses, he may request them to give him security, and in 
case they omit to do this, the Agent shall be at liberty to decide 
whether to publish or not. 3. It shall be the privilege of the 
Agent to cast his vote with the Publishing Committee in all mat- 
ters relative to the Book Concern. 4. It shall be the duty of the 
Agent to report the state of his accounts, and of the Book Con- 
cern, to the General Conference. 5. It shall be the duty of the 
Publishing Committee to employ the printer and editor or editors 



DAVID MARKS. 323 

to manage the publication of the Morning Star, to fill vacancies in 
the committee and agency — to select and prepare for publication 
such books as they may deem expedient — and give to the Agent 
such direction as they shall think essential to the prosperity of the 
establishment. 6. They shall annually examine and settle the ac- 
counts of the Agent, and report their doings to the General Con- 
ference. 7. In case the Agent should not properly manage the 
business of the Book Concern, it shall be the duty of the Publish- 
ing Committee to make examination, and, if necessary, to dismiss 
him, see that he is cleared from his engagements, and appoint an- 
other in his stead." 

The " Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists" in manu- 
script, was read to the Conference. Its sentiments, with some 
amendments, were approved. The work was then committed to 
the Publishing Committee and Agent to abridge and revise for 
publication. A committee of five were also appointed to meet 
with them to examine the work as soon as it was done, and if nec- 
essary, give it a further revision, and certify that the sentiments, 
as left by the Conference, have been retained by the Committee 
and Agent. 

Brother Sutton attended the Conference, and gave a new im- 
pulse to the missionary cause. As he had decided to visit England, 
the Conference addressed a letter to the committee of the General 
Baptist Mission Society, requesting them to permit Mr. Sutton, on 
his return from England, to labor with us for a season to forward 
the missionary enterprise among us." 

The following extract is taken from a copy of a letter Mr. 
Marks wrote at this time to Mr. J. G. Pike, Secretary of the Gen- 
eral Baptist Mission Society, and known in this country, as the au- 
thor of " Persuasives to Early Piety," " Guide to Young Disci- 
ples," &c. 

" Strafford, Vt, October, 1833. 
My Dear Brother, 

When I was sixteen years old, while on a passage up lake 
Erie, I formed a short acquaintance with three persons from Eng- 
land, who said they were members of a religious community called 
General Baptists. Finding their sentiments nearly the same as 
those of Free-will Baptists in America, I became much interested 
in them.* They handed me several books ; and among them was 
your " Persuasives to Early Piety." This I read with avidity, 
and on parting with my new friends, it was extremely hard to re- 

* The name Free-will Baptist was given us by our predestinarian brethren, on ac- 
count of our rejecting the doctrine of a particular atonement, and teaching that the free 
grace of God gives power to every sinner to change his will, and conform it to the gos- 
pel. 



324 MEMoiits of 

linquish it. Its contents deeply impressed my mind, and served 
to increase my anxiety for the conversion of souls. Six years af- 
terwards, to my great joy, I met with a copy of this work at the 
printing office devoted to the service of our denomination, where 
an edition had just been published. I distributed about fifty cop- 
ies, and have frequently had the satisfaction of hearing that others 
too hava profited by its perusal. Since that time, it has been ste- 
reotyped and published by the Sabbath School Union, so that it is 
now afforded cheap, and is extensively circulated. About eighteen 
months since, I obtained a copy of your " Guide to Young Disci- 
ples," and soon after, by the directions of a Publishing Committee 
appointed by our General Conference, I published two thousand 
copies of an extract from this work, including that part which 
speaks of the character of Christ and the personality of the Holy 
Spirit. The edition has been distributed, and has already done 
much good. * . * * 

My dear sir, I feel very grateful to you, and to my Heavenly 
Father, for the spiritual benefit that my brethren, myself, and oth- 
ers in this country, have received from your pen. May the Lord 
strengthen you, bless and reward your labors of love, and long con- 
tinue your life for the edification of the church, and the conversion 
of souls. * * * * 

Brother Sutton's visit to this country is hailed with joy, and will 
be a great blessing to us. I am sorry, I am ashamed, that we, as 
a people, have done so little for the spread of the gospel. I think 
our inactivity has not originated from a want of love to the cause, 
but from a lack of information. We have had many humble, devo- 
ted, and useful ministers, yet we have had very few who have com- 
bined deep piety with learning and talent sufficient to direct and 
unite the energies of our denomination. Consequently our labors 
and usefulness have been restricted to our own country. * 
Brother Sutton's letter, written in India, had almost the effect of 
an electric shock upon us, and while it excited much inquiry for 
facts, his timely visit has aroused a spirit that has gone forth among 
our churches, that will never slumber, till we too shall see some 
fruits of our labors among the poor degraded idolaters. * * * 

We feel very grateful to God, for the correspondence that has 
commenced between the General Baptists and ourselves ; and we 
pray that it may be for our mutual edification, and the advance- 
ment of the dear Redeemer's kingdom. 

Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 

David Marks." 

After the close of the Conference, Mr. Marks returned to Do- 
ver, and assisted in making preparations for the removal of the 
printing office, which was soon effected. The latter part of Octo- 






DAVID MAJt&S. 325 

ber, he went to Portland to box up and send to different places 
several hundred copies of the " Narrative of the Orissa Mission," 
just out of press, and forwarded from Boston. The volume con- 
tained 432 pages, duodecimo. The following notice of the work 
was given by the Boston Recorder. 

" The Narrative of the Orissa Mission is a very handsome vol- 
ume to begin with : and then it- is published chiefly for the purpose 
of exciting a missionary spirit among a large denomination of 
Christians in this country, who have hitherto stood quite aloof 
from such efforts. It relates also to a mission at one of the chief 
seats of idolatry in India, and is written by one who has long been 
personally engaged in it. We have already made some extracts 
from it, illustrative of heathen superstitions, and intend to use it 
further for the same purpose. In its illustrations of the abomina- 
tions of heathenism, it is more abundant than almost any missiona- 
ry narrative with which w^e are acquainted," 

Mr. Marks on his return to Dover, learned that Mr. Beede was 
ill in Boston, and that his presence was necessary in the manage- 
ment of his business. He hastened to the bed-side of his sick 
friend, found him alone and suffering the most excruciating pain, 
yet perfectly resigned. Mr. Beede said to him, " I have been anx- 
ious to live, for as my youth was wasted in sin, I have desired to 
redeem the time, and yet try to do a little good in the world. But 
now there is little remaining to make life desirable. For years my 
health has been such that I have enjoyed little temporal com- 
fort. Nearly all my labors have been performed in the most ex- 
cruciating pain that, human nature can endure. A complication of 
diseases is fastened on my system, so that should I recover from my 
present illness, there is every prospect that my future life will be a 
continued scene of distress." In a few days, Mr. Beede recovered 
his usual state of health. 

About the middle of Nov., Mr. Marks met the Publishing Com- 
mittee in Dover, and with them commenced the work of revising 
and abridging the " Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists." 
The latter part of November and first of December, he spent la* 
boring in a revival in Strafford, and often had solemn and power- 
ful seasons. 

The banks had now refused to discount, and a severe pressure 
in commercial affairs began to excite painful apprehensions that 
a trying crisis was at hand. Payments came in slowly while heavy 
debts would soon make their demands. Mr. Marks' health was 
extremely poor, still, that he might be prepared to meet the exi- 
gency, he thought it duty to make a tour through the churches in 
the eastern part of New Hampshire and in Maine, preaching 
28 



826 MEMOIRS OF 

among them and collecting bills due for the Morning Star and for 
books. Accordingly he sent appointments to about thirty church- 
es, including attendance at the New Durham quarterly meeting in 
Lebanon and the Anson quarterly meeting in Waterville, Me. 
which would occupy him till the 12th of February. He commenced 
his tour January 3, 1834. Some of his meetings were seasons of 
great solemnity and power. Several were awakened, some of 
whom never rested till they submitted to Christ. About the 25th 
of January, a very deep snow fell, accompanied by a heavy wind, 
which so filled the roads with drifts, as to render the travelling ex- 
tremely difficult and fatiguing. Mr. Marks' health again began to 
decline ; but he continued travelling till he met his twentieth ap- 
pointment in Wilton, the 5th of February. After preaching in the 
evening, he went to the house of Col. C. Morse, the brother who 
so liberally received the Fifth General Conference in 1831. In a 
few moments, he was seized with great distress, and was immedi- 
ately confined to his bed with bilious fever. As he had ever been 
punctual in his business engagements, never suffering a note to run 
out, he at first felt much anxiety. Five hundred dollars would 
soon be due in Boston. He had succeeded in collecting the amount, 
but could not forward it, as it was in small bills, and he was at some 
distance from any bank. But rather than fail of meeting his en- 
gagement, he sent the money to one of the Publishing Committee, 
with instructions to hire a man to carry it to Boston, which was 
accordingly done. His sickness raged with great violence, inso- 
much that he was deprived of his reason, and for a few days, little 
hopes were entertained of his recovery. Every care and atten- 
tion were freely bestowed by the hospitable family where he was 
confined, and by the Christian friends in the vicinity. A skillful 
physician also renderd his services gratuitously. In a few days, 
his symptoms changed, and he improved rapidly. 

As the snow was fast wasting, as soon as he could sit up a 
part of the day, he commenced his return to Dover, where he ar- 
rived about the 24th of February, somewhat invigorated. His 
dyspeptic difficulties being very severe, he now commenced house- 
keeping, in order that he might pursue such a course of dieting and 
regimen as best suited him. From the 25th of February to the 
4th of March, he was able to meet the Publishing Committee, arid 
labor with them in revising the " Treatise on the Faith of the Free- 
will Baptists," when Mr. Beede was taken ill, and the work was 
adjourned. 

Mr. Beede continued to grow worse ; soon his case became criti- 
cal, and in a few days his friends despaired of his recovery. Mr. 
Marks spent all the time his strength would permit by the bed- 
side of his suffering friend. As he saw the uplifted blow about to 



DAVID MARKS. 327 

sever him from one so deservedly dear, his anguish was unutterable. 
Mr. Beede's sufferings were excruciating, but he was all patience, 
humility, and resignation : and when his distress permitted, he was 
much engaged in supplications to God. Wednesday, March 26th, 
he said : " I am wasting away, but I have taken more comfort on 
this bed of affliction, in being resigned to the will of my Heavenly 
Father, than all this world could afford. The prayers of his dear 
children have given me inexpressible satisfaction. They have of- 
ten brought me a cluster of grapes that showed me the pastures 
where they had been feeding. My thoughts are absorbed in the 
contemplation of the things of another world, and my heart is filled 
with inexpressible desires for the happiness of my fellow creatures." 
He expressed the most anxious interest for the prosperity of pure 
religion, scriptural doctrine, and practical holiness, among Free- 
will Baptists. On the evening of this day, he called Mr. Marks 
to his bed-side, and, leaning on his bosom, asked him to settle his 
temporal affairs, then casting on him a look of inexpressible affec- 
tion, said : " You and I have labored much for which we shall re- 
ceive no reward — but a crown — yes, a crown. I have never dar- 
ed to tell you how much I have loved you. O that I had sought the 
Lord as young as you did. I have had nothing but my shattered fac- 
ulties to devote to the service of God." The following morning the 
symptoms of approaching death were visible. He called Mr. 
Marks and said he wished to talk with him : he sat by him two 
hours, but such were his distress and weakness that he could no 
longer converse. At length, he looked upon his weeping wife, and 
with much effort said to her, " Don't hinder me. Let me go to 
perfect happiness, the Lord is ready to receive me." She replied : 
" You may go — we will give you up, and detain you no longer." 
About one o'clock, he said in much apparent bodily suffering: 
" Where shall I go?" His companion replied, "You will go and 
be with Jesus." His countenance lighted with a smile, and he 
said, " Yes — I may go and be with Jesus." At two o'clock, P. M. 
she asked him if Jesus was precious. He answered, u Yes," and 
said slowly, "I feel — Jesus — to be — gracious to me — Come !■— 
Come! — Come !" His dying agonies were very severe. For hours his 
whole frame shook with a convulsive tremor, he was continually 
struggling and tossing from one side of the bed to the other, and 
all present seemed anxious for the termination of his sufferings. 
Several prayers were offered that he might have a speedy release. 
He continued thus, till fifteen minutes past eleven o'clock at> night, 
when suddenly his strength failed, his glazed eyes rolled swiftly in 
their sockets, then became fixed wide open, his breath was short 
and quick, and fifteen minutes before twelve, his spirit took its 



328 MEMOIRS OF 

flight. This was the first death of an adult person Mr. Marks had 
ever witnessed, and it almost overcame him. 
At this period he wrote thus in his journal : 
" Saturday, March 29,1 felt very thankful to my Heavenly Father 
that my dear brother Beede had got through his sufferings and ex- 
treme distress, though language can scarcely tell the gratitude we 
should have felt, had it pleased the Lord to continue his life to us. 
His corpse is the most smiling and beautiful I ever saw. It was 
affecting to see the poor widow cleave to the room where it lies* 
The sun shone with clearness, and the day was beautiful ; but O, I 
felt bereaved. The hand of affliction was heavy upon me. Sam- 
uel was very dear to me. O, he was one of the most valuable 
friends I had on earth ; most valuable, because his discourse wa3 
most free from flattery, most faithful in telling me my faults, show- 
ing me my prejudices, and the fallacy of my reasonings for favor- 
ite sentiments. But he is gone ! gone ! This morning I went 
with two brethren to the grave-yard to select a resting place for 
his remains. As I passed the places where I had associated with 
him, every thing seemed to remind me of my loss. Indeed, my 
affliction pressed so heavily upon me, that I was under the necessi- 
ty of turning away my thoughts, and compelling them to other 
subjects, to keep from sinking under my burden. 

Sabbath, March 30, I preached in Dover with much freedom 
from Eccl. 2:22, 23. " For what hath a man of all his labor," &c. 
Monday morning, a post mortem examination of the body of my 
friend showed that there was much disease of long standing. His 
liver was a mass of ulcers. His physician said nothing but his 
extreme temperance had enabled him to live so long. At nine 
o'clock, A. M., after a prayer, his body was removed on a hearse to 
the meeting house about a mile distant, which was crowded to over- 
flowing. It was my mournful lot to preach. I spoke from Rom. 
8:22, 23. " For we know that the whole creation groaneth and 
travail eth in pain together until now : And not only they, but 
ourselves also, ivhich have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we 
ourselves groan within ourselves,^ waiting for the adoption, to wit, 
the redemption of our body." This text was repeatedly suggested 
to my mind, while witnessing the dying agonies of my dear broth- 
er. The division was as follows. . 1. The doctrine of the text. 
2. Its application to the life and death of our brother. In the 
doctrinal part, I attempted to show that there were universal pangs 
endured through all nature, animate and inanimate, in consequence 
of sin — that the redemption provided by the gospel does not save 
the bodies of Christians from the pains, infirmities, and mortality, 
endured by others — that the adoption or resurrection of the body 
is the support of the righteous amidst the groans and afflictions of 



DAYID MARKS. 329 

this state. Great solemnity pervaded the assembly ; many ministers 
attended, and a large procession followed the corpse to the grave." 
Mr. Marks wrote through the Morning Star (which was clad in 
mourning) the following notice of Mr. Beede's death. 

a i How unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past find- 
ing out 3 Romans 11:33. 
Dear Brethren, 

The hand of the Lord hath touched us, and it has become 
our painful duty to announce the sad tidings that our dear brother, 
Samuel Beede, has closed forever his labors on earth. * * 
* * Language cannot describe the bitterness of our 
grief at this visitation. Though we feel to submit without a mur- 
muring thought, and to kiss the rod that struck the blow, yet our af- 
fliction seems to be greater than we can bear. If we met with 
difficulties in the important trust committed to us by the Gen- 
eral Conference in relation to your Book Concern, his counsel was 
as a light hi our path. Wherever he was called to act, if breth- 
ren had different views, and were tenacious of pursuing opposite 
measures, he scarcely ever failed to effect a reconciliation. But, 
alas ! he is gone from us never to return. This is not the first 
time in which the hopes of the church have been taken away as 
with a stroke. Yet, in similar instances, God has effected much 
more for his kingdom by the deaths of his eminent servants, than 
could have been accomplished by the continuance of their lives. 
Though the deaths of Harriet Newell and Henry Obookiah al- 
most blasted the hopes of the friends of missions, and led them to 
say with Jacob, ' All these things are against us,' yet these very 
circumstances kindled a missionary flame that has accomplished, 
more for the conversion of the world than could have been effect- 
ed by several long lives of arduous toil. The Lord is able to over- 
rule the brief labors and early death of our brother in a similar- 
manner." 

Journal. " Tuesday, April 1, was a solemn day spent in set- 
tling the affairs of my departed friend, in compliance with his dy- 
ing request. The remainder of the week was occupied in writing 
for the Morning Star and the Treatise. Sabbath, April 6, I 
preached in Portsmouth and felt much of the power of God. Af- 
ter the close of one of the meetings, I baptized three. There had 
been a great revival since I preached here in January last. Sev- 
eral of the converts dated their awakening at that meeting, and I 
was informed that it was the commencement of the revival. Bless- 
ed be the Lord for all his goodness. 

The little church in Portsmouth are very anxious I should 
preach with them for a season. Perhaps it is duty, especially as 
28* 



m 



MKMOIKS 01 

1 am unable to travel. They are few, only thirteen or fourte. 
members, Nerv unpopular, HO meeting house, and, what is most dis- 
couraging, one of their principal men is a distiller of ardent spir- 
its. Notwithstanding he knows my views, he seems very friendly, 

expresses great anxiety that 1 should come to Portsmouth, says he is 

willing 1 should preaeh as mueh as I please in favor oi' the tem- 
peranee eause, ami that if I will give an appointment for a tem- 
perauee leeture, he will attend. This church has recently joined 
the denomination, and was reeeived on condition that they would 
exercise gospel discipline in the ease o( this distiller. 

April 7, I returned to IXner, and till Wednesday, April 17, WM 
mostly engaged with the Publishing Committee in preparing the 
Treatise* When completed, as we signed our names, we had a 
solemn, weeping season. One oi' our number was gone, and his 
absence reminded us, that soon we too shall tinish our work. Thurs- 
day, April IS, 1 preached in a protracted meeting in Dover. This 
meeting continued eleven days, and about fifty professed to be 
converted. Having been appointed an assistant editor o( the 
Morning Star, 1 was much engaged until May 23] in writing for 
the Star and in labors for the Book Concern, In this time I 
preached in Dover, New Market, Barrington, Stratford, and Porta? 
mouth. In the latter place, on Sabbath, May I, I was present at 
a very interesting baptismal scene. At half past 8 o'clock, A. M.. 
four thousand people assembled at the water to witness the immer- 
sion of thirty-six believers, about to be received into three differ- 
ent denominations, the Calvinistic Baptist, Methodist and 
Baptist. After sinking and prayer, the three officiating ministers, 
arm in arm, walked into the water together: afterwards they led 
in their candidates, and baptized each in his turn : the first thirteen, 
the second twelve, and the third eleven. The solemnity and re- 
markable order that were visible* in the surrounding multitude, the 
union of Christians, the unruffled water, the serenity o( the sky. 
and the universal quiet o\ nature, conspired to render the scene in- 
expressibly impressive and delightful. 

May 29, We removed to Portsmouth. May Cod give wis- 
dom and success. 1 have adopted some rules in relation to diet 
and regimen, with the hope that, through the blessing of God, they 
will be the means o( improving my shattered health." 

The rules to which Mr. Marks referred were written with ex- 
press reference to rest and quiet. Bui the truth was, he knew not 
how to rest in a world like this, where he saw so much to be done. 
Labor and activity were his element, and such was the all consum- 
ing ardor of his soul, that whatever were his circumstances, there 
seemed a pressure upon his spirit, which constantly moved his 
heart, his lips, his pen, his hands, and kept him abounding in the 



DAVID MARKS. 331 

work of the Lord. In a short time after his settlement in Ports- 
mouth, he seemed to have as mueli to occupy his energies, as at 
any former period, so that he eould allow himself only from four 
to six hours sleep in twenty-four. If he awoke in the night and 
felt wakeful, he would immediately arise, and study or write, till he 
felt inclined to sleep. He resumed his course of careful theologi- 
cal reading which he commenced sometime previous, and continu- 
ed to discharge his duties as an assistant editor and as Agent for 
the Book Concern. Three thousand copies of" True Happiness," 
by J. G. Pike, had been issued by the establishment, and about this 
time, five thousand copies of the "Treatise on thePaith of the Pree-will 
Baptists." He entered with his accustomed zeal upon his labors as pas- 
tor. One of his first efforts was a temperance lecture, in which he was 
very pointed in his rebukes of the unholy traffic, and concluded by 
exhorting those who thought there was no other way to procure a 
livelihood, to die martyrs to right principles, and go and receive a 
martyr's crown. He next set about making religious visits, and 
gathering a Sabbath school, of which he was superintendent. 

The following was found recorded in one of his private papers : 
" I resolve to visit and pray with at least four families every day, 
as long as I live in the town, and to aim at visiting and praying with 
every family, and conversing with every person in the town. O 
Lord, give me wisdom, and aid me in these my efforts to save souls." 
He preached four sermons weekly to the little church, and attend- 
ed two prayer meetings : he also accepted frequent calls to attend 
meetings in towns in the vicinity of Portsmouth. 

In the early part of June, he labored three days at a protracted 
meeting in Hampton, which was attended with a prospect of much 
good. June 14 and 15, he attended the New Hampshire yearly 
meeting in New Hampton. On the Sabbath, the congregation was 
so large that they were obliged to convene in a grove. Several 
sermons were preached. Mr. Marks spoke from Genesis 3:3, 
" Neither shall ye touch it lest ye die," and was greatly favored in 
speaking. Some came forward for prayer, and it was thought ex- 
pedient, in view of the prospect, to protract the meeting another 
day. On Monday, as an invitation was given for those to come 
forward, that desired prayer, a young gentleman arose, trembling 
and weeping, and called on his youthful friends and acquaintance 
to seek the Lord with him, and prepare for heaven. The effect 
was thrilling. A large number presented themselves for prayer, 
and some, before they left, found peace in believing. 

The missionary enterprise had gained a deep hold upon his 
heart. Perhaps his views and feelings on this subject, as well as 
his manner of expressing them, cannot be better portrayed than in 
the following extracts from an article written by him and publish- 



332 MEMOIRS OF 

ed in the Star of July 9. Mr. Sutton was then hourly expected 
from England. *.#**« ^y e WO uld say to our 
brethren — whom the Lord has placed as'ste wards over his gold and 
silver — act in the discharge of your trust, in that way that you 
can review it with satisfaction in a dying hour, and as the Judge 
of all the earth will approve when you are put on trial at the judg- 
ment day. * * * We are calling on you to dis- 
charge your duty — not to give to Christ as though it were a chari- 
ty. If any have so misunderstood or misinterpreted the Scrip- 
tures, as to consider the subject in this light, we would address to 
them the language of a minister in Boston: 'What, Christ a 
child of charity, coming around and begging of you ? Christ, lord 
of this world, whose stewards ye are ? What if the clerks in this 
city, should take it into their minds, that all the property they had 
in their care was their own, and should get together and propose 
to give a little charity to their employers and owners ? Will you 
treat Christ thus ?' Dear brethren, O let us awake, and no longer 
live to ourselves, but to Him who died for us. * * * 
****** The loss of one soul is incal- 
culable. What then the loss of five hundred millions that die 
among the heathen every thirty years ! We are amazed and lost 
in trying to compute the dreadful ruin! Its very greatness so 
overwhelms us, that it is only by descending to particulars, that .our 
minds can receive any distinct impressions. Were all the popula- 
tion of these United States to die this year, it would not include as 
many souls as go in this period, in all the pollutions of idolatry, to 
the eternal world. Who that is acquainted with the love of Christ, 
can take this glance without crying with the prophet, i that my 
head were waters, and mine eyes a fountain of tears, that I might 
weep day and night.' Then, with a deep sense of our dependence on 
his arm in whom our strength lies, may our hearts devise and our 
hands execute ' liberal things /' While God is preparing his peo- 
ple to make an onset that shall cause the firmest pillars of satan's 
empire to tremble, let us do all we can to hasten this mighty con- 
summation, and scatter terror through the kingdom of darkness. The 
Lord God of Hosts is our leader, and will certainly conduct to vic- 
tory. A voice is calling to us from the four winds of heaven, say- 
ing, i Onward! Onward!' We have talked, and written, and hesita- 
ted, and wept long enough. The time has now come for action. 
The first great direction to be given now, not only in this, but in 
every good work, is, Do it ; and the second is, Do it ; and the third 
is, Do it. Deeds are the arguments, by which the timid are made 
bold, the feeble strong, and the doubting convinced — the heavy ar- 
tillery, by which the walls of satan's empire are broken down, and 
the enemy put to flight. These, then, are the arguments, and 



DAVID MARKS. 333 

these are the weapons, by which, we hope in God, to be able to go 
forward in this holy work. If any still doubt, we have no time to 
stop and convince them. We see our fellow men sinking — sinking 
on every side, into a bottomless abyss to rise no more. That they 
may be saved, we choose to prove by our efforts to save them. If 
others prefer to stand still and do nothing, let them at least throw no 
obstacles in the way of those who are trying to rescue from eter- 
nal wo, our miserable fellow men. The widow's mite is worth 
more in such a cause than millions of empty words and unsubstan- 
tial good wishes. O that a new spirit of prayer among us may 
now go up to Heaven, accompanied with strong crying and many 
tears, that the Lord of the harvest will send forth laborers into the 
whitened fields." 

For several months, Mr. Marks had had his sympathies greatly 
pained by his inability to answer favorably, the numerous requests 
from different sections for laborers, addressed to him as Agent of 
the printing establishment. These calls continued to grow more 
numerous and importunate. In the early part of July, while he 
and Mr. Burr were conversing on this subject, it was agreed that 
Mr. Marks should write a notice in the Star, calling a meeting for 
the formation of a Home Mission Society, to be held at Dover, N. 
H. on Thursday, July 31, 1834, at 10 o'clock, A. M. Among oth- 
er remarks appended to this notice, were the following : " Some of 
our brethren, when asked what they will do for the Orissa mis- 
sion, have plead that they thought there was need of doing some- 
thing at home first. They say, ' We have many heathen in our 
own country.' Such brethren will now have an opportunity to 
show their faith by their works ; and it is confidently expected that 
all who have excused themselves on this ground, excepting those 
whose coveiousness has driven them to this subterfuge, will now 
come forward, and lend their aid in converting the heathen of our 
land. It cannot be denied that there is great need of gospel labor 
in our own country. We have long heard the ciy for help." 

At the time appointed, the Society was organized with the usual 
officers, and fifty directors. A season of most intense interest, 
amounting almost to enthusiasm, was enjoyed. The terms for life 
membership were, fifteen dollars for males, and ten dollars for fe- 
males. Ten brethren and four sisters became life members imme- 
diately. The office of Corresponding Secretary was assigned to 
Mr. Marks, and as such, he was directed " to write to every officer 
and director, furnish them with a copy of the Constitution, and the 
most important doings of the Executive Committee, inform them of 
the duties of the office to which they had been respectively chosen, 
lay before them the importance of their united exertions in the mis- 
sionary cause, and request an answer whether they will accept 



334 MEMOIRS OF 

their appointment." A missionary was engaged immediately to go 
to Ohio. 

The church in Portsmouth having labored under great disadvan- 
tages for want of a meeting house, had bought the south parish 
church. It was built in old style, and would seat between two and 
three thousand people. Mr. Marks again made a few entries in 
his journal : 

" Sabbath, August 24, we held our first meeting in the meeting 
house. I hope yet to witness in it rich displays of God's mercy. 
Monday, I attended a meeting in Rye, four miles from Portsmouth, 
where I had engaged to preach once in two weeks on a week day 
evening. As the people were going out, a little girl came up to 
me and said, ' Sir, I am a great sinner ; will you pray for me ?' 
She kneeled, and weeping, prayed, l Lord, I am a great sinner. 
O, do forgive me and have mercy on me.' Another little girl came 
forward also, and kneeled, and prayed for herself in a very solemn 
manner. These were soon converted. Tuesday, I returned to 
Portsmouth, and learned that five persons lay dead in town. I 
met a hearse, followed by the parents and sisters of a young woman, 
who had often attended my preaching, but neglected Christ until 
consumption warned her to prepare to meet God. I followed to 
the grave. Here I saw a solemn spectacle. The burying ground 
was so filled with the dead, that the sexton, in digging the grave in 
a spot where there was no monumental stone, had thrown out the 
bones of three dead bodies. During the remainder of August, I 
was busily engaged, early and late, in writing, studying, visiting 
from house to house, and attending meetings almost daily. In 
some of these exercises, my soul was often greatly blessed, and I 
felt the witness that my labor was not in vain. 

Monday, Sept. 1, I preached by request in Newburyport, Mass. 
I had long desired to visit the spot where rest in glorious hope the 
mortal remains of George Whitefield. It had ever been a source of 
sweet satisfaction to me that Randall, the founder of the Free-will 
Baptist denomination, was one of Wbitefield's converts— one whom 
he slew at his death. Tuesday, I visited his tomb, in company 
with several others. It was under the pulpit of a Congregational- 
ist meeting house, built in 1756. On entering the house, we saw, 
at the right side of the pulpit, a splendid monument, the cost of 
which, we were informed, was SI 400. The pedestal is made of 
soap stone, and has three steps ascent on every side. The monu- 
ment is eight feet high, three feet seven inches square, is of varie- 
gated white marble, most exquisitely polished, and is bordered on 
the top, bottom, and corners, with variegated black marble. On one 
side is the following inscription, in carved letters, inlaid with gold. 

" This cenotaph is erected with the most affectionate veneration 



DAVID MARKS. 335 

to the memory of the Rev. George Whitefield, born at Glouces- 
ter, Eng., Dec. 16, 1714, educated at Oxford University, ordained 
1736. In a ministry of 34 years, he crossed the Atlantic thirteen 
times, and preached more than 18,000 sermons. As a soldier of 
the cross, humble, devout, ardent, he put on the whole armor of 
God, preferring the honor of Christ to his own interest, repose, 
reputation, or life. As a Christian orator, his deep piety, disinter- 
ested zeal, vivid imagination, gave unexampled energy to his look, 
action, and utterance. Bold, fervent, pungent, and popular in his 
eloquence, no other uninspired man ever preached to so large assem- 
blies, or enforced the simple truths of the gospel by motives so per- 
suasive or awful, and with an influence so powerful on the hearts 
of his hearers. He died of asthma, Sept. 30, 1770, suddenly ex- 
changing his life of unparalleled labors for his eternal life." 

Immediately in front of the pulpit, is a plain white marble, bear- 
ing the following inscription : " Under this pulpit are deposited 
the remains of the Rev. Geo. Whitefield, and the Rev. Jonathan 
Parsons, the first pastor of this church, who died July 19, 1776. 
Also of the Rev. Joseph Prince, who died 1791." The sexton con- 
ducted us to the vault under the pulpit. He unlocked it, and I en- 
tered with a lighted candle. Here were three coffins side by side. 
On the middle one was the name of Whitefield. I opened it — the 
coffin was about one third full of black earth, out of which project- 
ed a few bones. The skull bone was detached from the rest, and 
was turned over. Here I sat a few minutes, and while gazing at 
the sleeping dust, the most thrilling reflections forced themselves 
upon my mind. Ah ! thought I, is it possible that I am standing 
by the relics of that man of God, who felt so much for sinners — t 
who so often poured forth floods of tears over weeping thousands ? 
Is this that dust which was once animated with life, and which en- 
dured such unparalleled labors and fatigue, to warn the wicked to 
flee from the wrath to come ? Is such the end of all the glory of 
earth ? Must all the great, the honorable, the strong, the beauti- 
ful, and the gay, soon come to this ? It was but yesterday, as it 
were, that Whitefield died, and now what a contrast between that 
splendid monument and his remains. O, how emphatically true, 
that ' All flesh is as grass and all the glory of man as the flower 
of grass ;' yet, alas ! how little the multitude think of it or lay it 
to heart. l O that men were wise, that they understood this, that 
they would consider their latter end.' 

September 2, I returned to Portsmouth, and for the seven days 
following, attended to my usual duties. Sept. 9, I met a Conven- 
tion at the Great Falls, and assisted in organizing the Rockingham 
quarterly meeting, formed from eight churches of the New Durham 
quarterly meeting. Wednesday, Sept. 10, I preached at the open- 



336 MEMOIRS Of 

ing of worship, with much freedom, from the text, * Ye are bought 
with a price/ Returning to Portsmouth, I continued my labors 
in that and adjacent towns till Sept. 23. I then attended the 
Maine Western yearly meeting, also the annual meeting of the 
Foreign Mission Society in Parsonsfield, Me. and was appointed 
one of the Executive Committee. Saturday, Sept. 27, I went to 
N. Market, where I had an appointment, in exchange with brother 
Cilley. When within a mile of the village, I heard a woman cry* 
ing, ' Lord, have mercy !' On entering the house, I found her 
husband apparently dying with consumption. Yet, alas ! he was 
unprepared. Sabbath, I preached three sermons, spoke an hour 
to the Bible class, attended a prayer meeting, and visited and pray- 
ed with five sick persons. In the evening meeting, eight kneeled 
for prayer, and most of them prayed for themselves. Three of the 
number obtained a very joyful hope, and two others found some re- 
lief. Blessed be God for the mercies and strength he has given 
me this day. Monday I preached in Newburyport, the day fol- 
lowing went to Deerfield, and labored in a protracted meeting till 
Thursday, Oct. 2. On the second day of the meeting, fifty or six- 
ty came forward and kneeled for prayer, and several were convert- 
ed. Friday, Oct. 3, I wrote fifteen hours, and my companion six- 
teen, to get ready to meet the Publishing Committee. Next day 
we returned to Portsmouth." 

After this period, Mr. Marks seldom found time to make any en- 
tries in his journal; and when he did, they were generally very 
brief. He labored as usual in Portsmouth till October 22, when 
he took an agency for raising something toward aiding the church 
in paying for their meeting house, and notified between twen- 
ty and thirty appointments in New, Hampshire and Maine. 
The meeting of these appointments, and the duties connected with 
them, occupied his time till November 14, when he returned to 
Portsmouth, and labored the remainder of the month. During this 
journey, he attended a meeting of the Foreign Mission Executive 
Board in North Parsonsfield, also spent three days at a general 
conference of Free-will Baptist ministers in Readfield, Me., called 
for the purpose of " promoting the union, piety, and usefulness of 
the ministry." Mr. Marks proposed the following subjects for dis- 
cussion. " How far is it essential that the ministers of the same 
denomination be united in doctrine and practice ? Does the gos- 
pel warrant any regular system for the support of ministers ? Is 
the establishment of Home and Foreign Missions scriptural ? Is 
the establishment of our Book Concern calculated to promote the 
gospel ?" The discussions on these and other subjects were ani- 
mated, and the reports were made with much unanimity. He met 
with Mr. Eli Noyes in Jefferson, and proposed to him to go as a 



DAVID MARItS. 337 

missionary to India. He persuaded him to relinquish teaching, of- 
fer himself to the Mission Board, and spend the winter in study at 
Parsonsfield. 

December 2 and 3, Mr. Marks attended the second session of 
the Rockingham quarterly meeting at New Market. It was a time 
of great harmony, and the prospect for a revival was such that the 
meeting was protracted. About forty came forward for prayer, and 
some were converted. Mr. Marks' dyspeptic difficulties still con- 
tinued to be very severe. His stomach rejected almost every 
kind of food, while he was afflicted with the most gnawing hunger. 
He often said he knew all the sufferings of death by starvation. He 
now resolved on a more rigid course of dieting than he had as yet 
pursued, allowing himself but twelve ounces of food daily, and 
weighing it with much exactness. Under this treatment, his flesh 
wasted, while his stomach gained strength, and his general health 
improved. He labored this month as usual in Portsmouth, and al- 
so preached in Newburyport, Kittery, North Hampton, and Rye. 
The church in Portsmouth had been gradually increasing in num- 
bers and interest, and occasionally some had been converted. De- 
cember 30, he went to BoHon and attended a protracted meeting 
four days with a church enjoying the labors of Elder Jonathan 
Woodman. This church had not joined any denomination, but hav- 
ing expressed a wish to become connected with the Free-will Bap- 
tists, and applied to them for aid, the Home Mission Society had 
sent brother Woodman to preach with them for a season. Some 
twelve or twenty were about to be added to the church. 

So great and important changes had taken place in the Free- 
will Baptist denomination in the brief period of three years, that 
Mr. Marks was often led to exclaim, " What hath God wrought ?" 
The interest awakened in the benevolent enterprises of the day, 
was closely knitting the hearts of ministers and members. The 
disheartened were encouraged and schisms had disappeared. About 
this time, he wrote in the Star as follows : " As far as we are able 
to learn, unparalleled unity of efforts is consolidating our ranks on 
every* hand. Never was there in our denomination, a brighter 
prospect of usefulness than is now presented. Doors are opened 
on every hand, and there is scarcely a city, village, or town of im- 
portance, from the Atlantic to the Rocky mountains, where there is 
not either a call or an open door for us to labor in the vineyard of 
the Lord. If we had a sufficient number of devoted ministers, 
thousands of churches might be raised up and millions of souls 
soon be converted. Who will offer the prayer of faith for an in- 
crease of faithful laborers ?" 

The Morning Star had at this time entered the lists in the great 
moral contest with slavery, — and the facts that were daily coming 
29 



338 MEMOIRS OF 

before the public, exemplifying its horrid abominations, very deep- 
ly affected the subject of these memoirs. In his editorial articles, 
he was very pointed against this legalized system of wickedness, 
as were also some of the other writers. Subscribers in the Free- 
will Baptist churches in the Carolinas, were angry, wrote him spir- 
ited letters, and discontinued in large numbers. Many others 
were also dissatisfied, and a dark cloud threatened the prospect of 
the future. But he knew not how to compromise truth with error, 
and he resolved that if his influence could avail, the Star should 
maintain its high and holy stand, though the violence of the gath- 
ering storm should demolish the establishment, for whose prosperi- 
ty he had so assiduously labored, and finally involve himself in 
bankruptcy. 

January, 1835, Mr. Marks spent mostly in Portsmouth, saw 
some accessions to the church, and signs of a revival. He also at- 
tended the New Durham quarterly meeting in Gilmanton, which 
was followed by several conversions. In February, in addition to 
his usual duties, he preached with the churches in South Berwick, 
Dover, Loudon, and Canterbury. March 2 and 3, he attended the 
third session of the Rockingham quarterly meeting, which was a 
time of more than ordinary interest. The church in Boston, of 
more than fifty members, was received, and strong resolutions were 
passed against American slavery. Active measures were taken for 
furthering the cause of missions, and for increasing the circulation 
of the Morning Star. After his return to Portsmouth, he read 
from his pulpit, several of Mr. C. G. Finney's " Revival Lectures,'* 
which were first published in the New York Evangelist, and were 
re-published in the Morning Star. These were read between the 
afternoon and evening service on the Sabbath, and on week day 
evenings. While he was reading the remarks on tobacco in the 
13th lecture, one professor of religion immediately took his tobacco 
from his mouth and threw it away, and at the close of the meeting, 
another emptied his pockets of the filthy drug, saying, " I will nev- 
er chew any more tobacco as long as I live." 

March 13, Mr. Sutton visited Portsmouth, exhibited his idols, 
and preached on the subject of missions with very great accep- 
tance. The meeting house was crowded in every part, and many 
went away who could not get in. It was thought that about three 
thousand people were present. March 17, Mr. Marks met the 
Foreign Mission Board in Parsonsfield, Me. It was agreed to 
send Mr. Eli Noyes with Mr. Sutton, the ensuing fall, as a mis- 
sionary to India. 

The latter part of March, Mr. Marks was unusually feeble. His 
rigid dieting had reduced his weight to one hundred and thirty- 
seven pounds, having lost thirty-eight in the last four months. 



DAVID MARKS. 339 

[Previous to his first attacks of sickness, lie weighed two hundred 
and thirty-five pounds.] He again relinquished his studies and 
writing, and made an effort to rest ; but as the power of motion 
was still left him, he endured the ordeal but a few days, and then 
resumed his usual pursuits. The signs of a revival in his congre- 
gation continued, and he concluded to hold a protracted meeting. 
He had invited Mr. Sutton to his aid, who had expressed much 
desire to attend such a meeting before he left America. He had 
also secured the attendance of some other ministers a part of the 
time. April 1, the meeting commenced, and continued eighteen 
days. Congregations were large, solemn, and attentive, and the 
Spirit of the Lord was poured upon them. The first that was con- 
verted dated her awakening from the reading of one of Mr. Fin- 
ney's lectures. Immediately, others presented themselves as anx- 
ious inquirers for salvation, and soon several found peace in believ- 
ing. The work went on with power. In about two weeks, thirty- 
two had professed submission to Christ, and seventeen had been 
baptized. Near the close of the meeting, Mr. Sutton's engage- 
ments called him to Boston, but his heart was so much in the work, 
that it was hard leaving : and before he could tear himself away, 
he preached three discourses, intending each of them as his fare- 
well to the people. On these occasions, the large meeting house 
was crowded to overflowing. The work continued with considera- 
ble interest after the meeting closed, and the church was increased 
to about sixty members, notwithstanding several subjects of the re- 
vival united with the churches where they had usually attended 
worship. An interesting missionary concert was now sustained, 
and the Sabbath school was flourishing. 

The last of April, Mr. Marks visited Boston, and heard the cel- 
ebrated British anti-slavery agent, George Thompson. His sub- 
ject was the merits of the Colonization Society. Although he had 
long since abandoned the idea of any hope for the slave from that 
quarter, yet he had not until now supposed that it actually aided 
slavery. He pronounced Mr. Thompson the most eloquent man 
he ever heard. He said his appeals, at times, overpowered his 
feelings to a degree that almost produced suffocation, and it was 
often with difficulty that he could get power to breathe. On Ins 
return to Portsmouth, as he called at the Post Office, his attention 
was arrested by the appearance of a young man, whose exterior 
was unusually gentlemanly and interesting. But while he was 
admiring his very agreeable manners, an oath suddenly fell from 
his lips. With deep emotions of grief, Mr. Marks fixed his eyes 
upon him, and said kindly, u Friend, you ought not to swear." 
The young man followed him to his carriage and inquired, " What 
is that you said ?" " You ought not to swear," was the reply. 



540 MEMOIRS OF 

" But/' rejoined the young man, " I can prove to you from the 
Bible that it is right to swear. It is written that every knee shall 
bow, and every tongue shall swear." " But not profanely/' said 
Mr. Marks. " It is also written of some that they wrest the Scrip- 
tures to their own destruction." Said the young man, " I don't 
believe the doctrine you preach. I believe all will be well after 
death. I am a Universalist," — then, in a moment, as if conscience- 
stricken, he added, " Friend, you are right, and I am wrong : I 
ought not to swear. But it is of no use to talk to me. I was not 
always as I now am. Once I had serious impressions. In Boston 
and Poplin, I was respected and happy. But now I am miserable. 
I know there is no mercy for me. If there is a hell I know I shall 
go to it. I try to think there is none ; but I am an unhappy man. 
When it is morning, I long for the night, and when it is night, I 
long for the morning." Mr. Marks tried to encourage him to turn 
from his sins and look to Christ. Said the young man, " It is of 
no use, you need not talk to me. I know I shall go to hell, and I 
will go ! ! Could temporal circumstances make me happy, I should 
be a happy man. I have enough of this world's wealth, and my 
friends try to make me happy ; but I am a wretched man. I have 
indulged in every pleasure, and ha^e given unrestrained license to 
my appetites and passions. But, O ! I am miserable. I long to 
die and know the worst of my case." Mr. Marks still urged him 
to reform, and cast himself upon the mercy of God, and extorted 
from him a partial promise to call and see him. But he never saw 
him afterwards, nor was he able to learn his subsequent history. 

May 4, Mr. Marks was present at the marriage of Mr. Eli Noyes 
to Miss Clementina Pierce, of Portsmouth. Miss Pierce was the 
only surviving daughter of her widowed mother, who had followed 
seven daughters to the grave. It was a severe and painful strug- 
gle for the mother to lay her idol upon the missionary altar ; but, 
at last, she made the sacrifice with much cheerfulness. The mar- 
riage solemnities, under these circumstances, were very solemn, 
and many wept. During this month, Mr. Marks was engaged early 
and late, with the care of his increasing flock, preaching to the 
sailors, and the inmates of the Poor Asylum, and in discharging 
the duties of his various offices. Among the latter, was the outfit 
of Mr. and Mrs. Noyes for India. 

About this time, he became much interested in the Oberlin Col- 
legiate Institute, and often expressed a desire to spend a season 
there. It had been in operation one year and a half, and Mr. C. 
G. Finney had accepted an appointment in it, as Professor of The- 
ology. May 27, he wrote in the Star a lengthy notice of this In- 
stitution, embracing facts taken mostly from the New York Evan- 



DAVID MARKS. 341 

gelist, and commended its patronage to the young men and women 
of the Free-will Baptist denomination. 

June 4, he attended the second anniversary of the New Hamp- 
shire Anti- Slavery Society at Concord, and was exceedingly inter- 
ested. Among the speakers were Henry B. Stanton, one of the 
fifty students who had recently left Lane Seminary in Cincinnati 
because the college faculty would not allow them to discuss the 
slavery question, and Mr. Woodbury, brother • of the Hon. Levi 
Woodbury, then Secretary of War, now one of the judges of the 
Supreme Court of the United States. Mr. Marks briefly reported 
their addresses in the Star. Among many interesting things said 
by Mr. Woodbury, were the following : " They say to us, keep 
still. We have kept still two centuries. I've tried to keep still, 
but I can't keep still — I won't keep still — I won't, I won't. Two 
or three years ago, I went on a kind of patriotic excursion to visit 
the tomb of Washington. A man guided me to the spot. He was 
a man, Mr. President, not a thing, a man with a black face. His 
head was whiter than any one's in this audience. I was not then 
an abolitionist, nor even a colonizationist. I asked the man if he 
were a slave. He said he was — was Washington's slave. But, 

I said, I thought Washington liberated all his slaves. He re- 
torted, ' I guess if he had, I should have known it. No, he only 
liberated his household slaves. His field slaves descended with the 
farm ; I was a field slave.' I inquired, have you any children ? 

I I have had ten.' Ten — where are they ? ' I don't know. They 
were taken to a southern market and sold, and in my weak old age, 
I have no one to bring me even a cup of water.' While I gazed 
on that poor old man, my vow went up to heaven that I would be 
an abolitionist." 

In the early part of June, Mr. Marks left Portsmouth, accom- 
panied by his companion, to attend the anniversary of the Home 
Mission Society, and the New Hampshire yearly meeting, which 
• were soon to be held in Lisbon in the north part of the state. We 
soon fell in company with several brethren in the ministry, and en- 
joyed the sweets of Christian intercourse the remainder of the jour- 
ney. Nature had put on her most beautiful robe, and the enchant- 
ing scenery, as we passed along, among the hills, vallies, and 
streams, united to inspire the soul with emotions of holy delight. 
We arrived in Lisbon, June 11, physically and mentally invigora- 
ted by this delightful journey. 

The Home Mission anniversary opened Friday morning at half- 
past nine o'clock, A. M. Mr. Marks, as Corresponding Secretary, 
reported that thirteen quarterly meetings had organized societies 
auxiliary to the parent society. A circular had been published, 
and sent to nearly every church, entreating them either to form so- 
29* 



342 MEMOIRS OF 

cieties or hold quarterly conferences. One missionary had been 
sent to Ohio, whose labors had been blessed to the conversion of 
several souls, missionaries had been sustained a few weeks in Bos- 
ton, Newburyport, and Portland, and a part of the time, an agent 
had been employed to travel. Many urgent calls had been sent to 
the society for aid, among which was the following very pathetic 
request from an association of General Baptists in Indiana. After 
giving a painful description of their destitute state, they wrote, — 
" From our near situation to New Harmony, the principles of Rob- 
ert Owen have taken deep root in many minds, and we want a 
preacher to combat them. O, send us one laborer. We ask but 
one — we will be satisfied with one — we will try and support one. 
Be assured that he who comes will find many here, whose hearts 
will leap for joy at the presence of a faithful Free-will Baptist 
preacher. Our home shall be his home, and our fire-sides and tables 
shall render him the comforts we receive ourselves. Let us know 
if you will comply with our request. We feel that we are the 
same with you in principle, and our interest is in common with 
yours, therefore we are the more bold in soliciting assistance." The 
Corresponding Secretary in his report asked, " Is this a time for 
the church of God to be idle, or the saints of the Most High to 
slumber ? No ! No ! There is too much to be done for a single 
Christian to be inactive. Ye soldiers of Jesus, " To your arms ! 
To your arms ! Remember the crown is for those who fight." Sev- 
eral resolutions were passed, accompanied by soul-stirring speeches. 
Mr. Sutton, in speaking on a resolution representing North Amer- 
ica as an inviting field for gospel labor, said, " This is true. I was 
in Virginia a few weeks since, and had the privilege of preaching 
to the slaves, and O, never shall I forget their anxious looks and 
streaming eyes. They hung on every word, with their mouths 
open, and seemed ready to catch all they heard. O, how I did 
love to preach to them. * * I was much affected this morning 
when hearing in your Corresponding Secretary's report the pathet- 
ic entreaties for labor in Indiana. I almost wished I could be di- 
vided into ten thousand pieces, and every piece should go and 
preach the gospel. I would send one to Indiana, one to Virginia 
among the poor slaves, others farther south, some to India, China, 
&c. among the heathen." 

After the close of the discussions, opportunity was given for any 
to become members of the Society. Mr. Marks, to illustrate the 
principle of missionary operations, said : " According to the 
last report, there are three hundred members belonging to the 
church in this town. Now let us suppose that Whitefield [an ad- 
jacent town] contains one thousand inhabitants, among whom there 
is not a minister nor a single Christian. Some of the brethren 



DAVID MARKS. 343 

here begin to think and talk about the lamentable condition of the 
people of Whitefield. They have no Sabbath, and all their children 
are growing up without any religious instruction. One says, I think 
the command to preach the gospel to every creature is binding on 
the church, and some of us ought to go over to Whitefield, and 
give the people religious instruction and pray with them. Says 
another, I could for my part, spend one hour in a day to convert 
the people in Whitefield, if, when I had labored nine hours in a 
day, (which I must to support my family,) I was only there to 
spend the tenth. All agree that they would be willing to do this ; 
but as the distance to Whitefield is such, that they cannot all labor 
personally to convert the people, one proposes the following plan. 
That they shall choose one out of every ten members of the church 
to go and spend his whole time in laboring to convert the people in 
Whitefield, and the remaining nine members shall each one go and 
work their hour on the farm of the one that is absent. Now, would 
this be giving every one an hour's work to the brother that has 
gone to Whitefield ? Certainly not. It is merely an exchange of an 
hour's work, to save you the expense and time of journeying to 
Whitefield to do your duty. By this exchange the church might 
support thirty missionaries in Whitefield, while without it they 
would do just nothing at all. How much love would a member 
show for these destitute people, should he say, " I'll have noth- 
ing to do with your plan of exchange. When I feel it duty to go 
to Whitefield, I will, and if God sends you, he will support you and 
your family." Now this is just the case with our Home Mission So- 
ciety. It is founded on the following propositions. 

1. God has commanded that the gospel be preached to every 
creature. 2. This command is not obligatory on merely a few indi- 
viduals, but is directly or indirectly binding on every individual in 
the whole church. 3. Every man has his own proper calling of 
God— -all men are not called to preach personally ; but while one 
does this, others are called to uphold his hands by supporting him, 
and in doing it, they do not give to the preacher, but only do them- 
selves, by exchange, what God has commanded them to do. Thus 
we are called to be co-workers with God, and if every one is faith- 
ful, according to the ability given of God, the crowns of glory, the 
rewards of righteousness, will be distributed as freely in the great 
judgment day, to those who have given of their substance with a 
pure heart, as to those who have entered personally into the field. 
And now, Christians, let me ask you before the Lord, can you not 
spare one hour of the twenty-four to labor for the spread of the 
gospel ? This, at ten cents per hour, would be nearly forty dollars 
annually ; at half this price it would be nearly twenty dollars. Can 
you not spare half an hour, or at least fifteen minutes per day ? 



244 MEMOIRS OF 

Should every one devote only five minutes daily, to some employ- 
ment for this purpose, it would amount to several dollars every 
year, and who cannot do this ? What Christian will not ?" 

Saturday morning, the yearly meeting of business was opened. 
Mr. Marks presented a resolution for the discussion of the subject 
of slavery, which was the first that was ever presented to the New 
Hampshire yearly meeting. He spoke with much effect in its sup- 
port, and was followed by others. Another resolution was intro- 
duced, lamenting the condition of the slave in reference to his relig- 
ious privileges, the discussion of which powerfully excited the sym- 
pathies of the audience. Mr. Sutton, in speaking on this resolu- 
tion, said : " I am glad to see your tears fall and your bosoms heave. 
Time was when the glory of Africa would compare with that of the 
most honored nations of the earth. She took the lead in the arts and 
sciences. She had her splendid churches, her men of learning and 
her martyrs. What has made the change ? Ah ! it was the Chris- 
tian's cursed thirst for gold ! ! The slave ships went to Africa — 
stole her sons and sold them to fill the Christian's purse !" 

Dr. F. A. Cox, a delegate from the " London Baptist Union'* in 
England, to the Baptist Triennial Convention recently held in Rich- 
mond, Va., also spoke on this resolution. This was the first if not 
the only time, that he publicly rebuked slavery during his stay in 
America. He apologized for his silence, on the ground that he be- 
lieved he could do more good in the anti-slavery cause, by exerting 
his influence in a private way. Mr. Marks reported this discus- 
sion for the Star ; it was subsequently copied into the Emancipa- 
tor and sent to Virginia. The Petersburg Constellation in that- 
state, came out with a violent article against Mr. Sutton and Dr. 
Cox, calling the latter a " snake in the grass." 

Saturday afternoon and evening, interesting sermons were preach- 
ed by Elders J. Buzzell and J. Woodman, and a few presented 
themselves for prayer. Preparations had been made for conven- 
ing the congregation on the Sabbath, in a beautiful grove, as an 
overflowing attendance was anticipated, notice having been given 
that Mr. Sutton would be present, and that Mr. E. Noyes would be 
ordained as a missionary to India. Early in the morning, multitudes 
were seen flocking to the " leafy temple," till, at the time the hour 
for preaching arrived, it was judged that three thousand people 
were present. Dr. Cox preached the ordination sermon from our 
Savior's words : " I am the light of the world," after which the 
solemn services of the ordination were performed. The serious, 
universal, and unbroken attention of the audience, evinced their 
deep interest. In the afternoon, Mr. Sutton preached on missions 
with his accustomed ardor, after which, a request was made that 
all present who would engage to pray for missions and contribute 






DAVID MARKS. 345 

to their support would raise their hands. Many hundreds of 
hands were instantly raised. Mr. Marks preached in the evening ; 
about thirty-five went forward for prayer and several prayers were 
offered in their behalf. Dr. Cox, speaking of this meeting in 
his " Baptists in America/' said, " The impassioned character of 
the supplications was often astonishing for fervency and flow. 
The whole atmosphere seemed infected with excitement. You 
seemed to have got into a new element of existence. The whis- 
pers or appeals to candidates in a subdued tone, were often solemn, 
seasonable, and pointed." Thus closed one of the most interest- 
ing and important sessions ever held by the New Hampshire year- 
ly meeting. Mr. Marks, in subsequent days, often referred to this 
season as one of the happiest of his life. Dr. Cox said to him, 
that the sentiments of Free-will Baptists, as far as he had been 
able to learn them, were more in unison with the sentiments of the 
churches of the London Baptist Union, than were the Calvinistic 
Baptists. In the work just alluded to, he remarks : " My inter- 
course with the ministers and people of this denomination, convinc- 
ed me of their zeal and union. I perceived also much of enlarg- 
ed benevolence and individual generosity of feeling. Their senti- 
ments towards each other were eminently fraternal. Whoever was 
the preacher, he was equally cheered by every other. The puri- 
tanical manner appears to be very generally retained ; and it is 
combined with much of the primitive spirit. Their method is 
often pointed, and commonly vehement. * * * As 

a denomination, their views in some points, and their practices in 
other respects, will, no doubt, be modified by time and experi- 
ence." 

Monday, June 15, Mr. Marks met with the Foreign Mission 
Board, and it was decided to send out another missionary with Mr. 
Noyes. In the afternoon we set out on our return to Portsmouth, 
in company with brethren Burr, Cilley, and Thurston, purposing 
to visit the summit of Mt. Washington, (the highest peak of the 
White Hills,) and pass through what is called the " Notch." Tues- 
day morning, having procured horses and saddles, we proceeded, at 
six o'clock, accompanied by a guide, to ascend Mt. Washington, the 
highest elevation of which is 6,428 feet above the level of the sea. 
After riding six miles, we were obliged to dismount, leave our 
horses, and pursue the uneven tenor of our way, climbing over 
masses of broken rocks, piled upon each other almost perpendicu- 
larly. Snow of considerable depth lay in some places along our 
pathway, clouds floated beneath us, and the cold began to affect us 
quite unpleasantly. At length, with much toil and fatigue, after 
climbing three miles, we gained the summit. A scene of surpass- 
ing grandeur met our sight. In the far distance to the southeast, 



346 MEMOIRS OF 

was the Atlantic ocean lying in the horizon like a cloud, one hun- 
dred and twenty miles to the southwest lay Mt. Monadnoc, west 
were the Green Mountains of Vermont, and northeast the Katah- 
din mountains. Within the circle of our extended vision, were 
scattered numerous villages, fields and forests. The Connecticut river, 
with its tributaries, added not a little to the beauty of the scene. 
After feasting our eyes a while, we partook of a repast brought by 
our guide. We then had singing and prayer, and listened to a ser- 
mon from Elder Thurston. His text was Mat. 14:8, 9. "The 
devil taketh him up into an exceeding high mountain, and sheweth 
him all the kingdoms of the world and the glory of them ; and 
saith unto him, all these will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down, 
and worship me." Our external circumstances were admirably 
calculated to give force to the text. Soon after the sermon, we 
commenced our descent, and arrived at the public house, at the 
base of the mountain, at six o'clock, P. M., so much wearied that 
rest was an indescribable luxury. Next morning we passed through 
the " Notch," which is a defile through the White Hills, in some 
places so narrow as to leave barely room for a road. The tower- 
ing mountains, the overhanging cliffs, the narrow pass, the roaring 
stream, are admirably fitted to impress the traveller with the deep- 
est awe of that Being who " weighs the mountains in scales, and 
the hills in a balance." 

Saturday, June 19, we arrived in Portsmouth. The church con- 
tinued to prosper, though passing through trials in consequence of 
the exercise of church discipline in the case of the distiller. At 
that time, the traffic in ardent spirits was honorable in Portsmouth, 
and no other church in town, except the Methodist, required their 
members to abstain from it. The distiller perseveringly refused to 
give up his deadly work, and all the necessary steps had been tak- 
en preparatory to his exclusion. A dreadful occurrence seemed to 
call loudly on the church for decisive action. Mr. Wilson of Kit- 
tery, in a drunken fit, murdered his wife in a most brutal manner, 
and it was reported, on credible authority, that he obtained the in- 
toxicating draught from this Free-will Baptist distiller. The 
church were ready for action, except on the ground of expediency. 
They were poor, were still in debt for their house, and the distiller 
was responsible for two hundred dollars of this debt, in such a 
manner that he could make the church much trouble. Mr. Marks, 
seeing the irresolution of the leading members from this circum- 
stance, went to Dover, hired the money from the bank, and paid 
the two hundred dollars. The act of exclusion immediately fol- 
lowed. For this carrying out of temperance and gospel principles, 
one of the Portsmouth papers came out with a bitter article, and 
both Mr. Marks and the church suffered much contempt and oblo- 



DAVID MARKS. 347 

quy from the wicked, as well as from those who professed better 
things. 

Occasionally, for the benefit of sea air and relaxation, Mr. Marks 
went out on short fishing excursions ; and in a few instances, call- 
ed at the Isle of Shoals, and held meetings with the people. This 
island is about nine miles from Portsmouth, and then contained 
between one and two hundred inhabitants, mostly fishermen. They 
had a house of worship, but no minister. July 30, he visited the 
island, accompanied by Elders Woodman, Cilley and Noyes, with 
sixty or seventy brethren from Portsmouth, New Market and Do- 
ver. They continued there twenty-eight hours, and held six meet- 
ings. Each of the ministers preached. The last exercise was 
held on the rocks by the sea-side, where about two hundred were 
assembled. Two related their religious experience, Mr. Marks 
baptized them, and they were added to the Portsmouth church. 
One of these was converted only about three hours before she was 
baptized. 

August 11, Mr. Jeremiah Phillips, a student in Hamilton Sem- 
inary, and a Free-Communion Baptist from Plainfield, N. Y., was 
appointed by the Foreign Mission Board, to accompany brethren 
Noyes and Sutton to India. He was subsequently married to Mrs. 
Mary E. Beede, widow of Samuel Beede. The making the outfit 
for their voyage, except the preparation of their state-room in the 
ship, devolved on Mr. Marks. During this month he compiled the 
Free-will Baptist Register for 1836. 

Mr. Marks believing the Book Concern had acquired a perma- 
nency that, with judicious management, would insure its success, de- 
termined to resign his agency at the approaching General Confer- 
ence, also his other responsibilities, return to New York, and seek 
rest and retirement. He had become sensible that the continuance 
of his life depended on some such change, and he despaired of find- 
ing rest, if he remained in New England. Being quick with the 
pen, and ready in drafting articles, a great amount of labor was 
habitually imposed upon him in missionary, quarterly, and yearly 
meetings, in addition to his other labors. His rigid dieting had 
lessened his dyspeptic difficulties ; but his nervous system was 
more severely affected than ever. At times, his mind seemed al- 
most a wreck, so that any kind of mental labor would so affect him 
that he could not tell where he was, or even his own name. In 
view of his anticipated departure from New England, one subject 
pressed heavily upon his mind, the securing of a faithful pastor to 
take charge of the Portsmouth church. They thought they were 
too poor, with the debt for their house on their hands, to raise 
much to sustain a minister. During the period Mr. Marks had la- 
bored with them, (nearly a year and a half,) he had received a little 



348 MEMOIRS OF 

more than one hundred dollars. The remainder of his expenses 
he had borne himself, and had given besides fifty-eight dollars for 
the expenses of the church. Ten dollars were for a Sabbath school 
library, ten dollars towards warming the house, and thirty-eight 
towards the meeting house. To encourage the church to sustain a 
minister, he told them he would assist them, and persuaded them to 
secure the labors of Elder James A. McKenzie of Rhode Island. 
Subsequently, he gave twenty-five dollars toward his support. 

About the 16th of September, Mr. Marks went to Boston to 
finish the arrangements for the voyage of our missionaries. They 
were to sail in the ship Louvre, accompanied by seventeen other 
missionaries, belonging to different denominations. Most of these 
had been brought into the field through the untiring efforts of the 
devoted Sutton, who, without regard to denominational distinctions, 
had labored to stir up a missionary spirit among all Christians. 
Sabbath evening, Sept. 20, the farewell services were attended in 
Dr. Sharp's meeting house [Baptist] which was filled to overflow- 
ing. The missionaries were seated together, while instructions and 
addresses were given them. Some were to go to China, one to 
Burmah, and several to Hindoostan. Mr. H. Malcolm, having 
been appointed on a three years' tour to visit the Baptist mission- 
ary stations, was going to sail with them. Both he and Mr. Sutton 
addressed the audience in a very impressive manner. The follow- 
ing particulars relating to their departure, are taken from an arti- 
cle Mr. Marks wrote for the Star. 

" Tuesday, Sept. 22. Before ten o'clock, A. M., Union wharf, 
where lay the ship Louvre, was thronged by a multitude of sever- 
al thousands, assembled to witness its departure. The counte- 
nances of the missionaries were bright and joyous. After brother 
Noyes had taken leave of his friends, he said, ' The long wished 
for moment has arrived, and I can say, ' Welcome sweet day of 
rest.' Taking brother Phillips by the hand, he said to him, < I 
thank my Heavenly Father that he has given me a fellow laborer 
to go with me to idolatrous India.* A short time since, I thought 
I must go alone, and it was somewhat painful to me.' Sister Sut- 
ton's relatives were weeping, and saying, ' We cannot part with 
them.' She looked upon them from the ship, with a sweet smile, 
and pointing to heaven, said, i Don't weep.'f The missionaries 
stood together on the side of the ship, facing the throng with cheer- 
ful faces, undimned (so far as I could discover) by a single tear. 

* It was an affecting circumstance, that while Mr. Phillips' father visited Boston, to 
take leave of his son, he took the small pox, and on his return to Plainfield gave it to 
his wife, and they both died. 

t Mrs. Sutton was formerly the wife of Mr. Coleman, a missionary who sailed to Bur- 
mah, soon after Messrs. Judson and Newell. 






DAVID MARKS. 349 

Singing and prayer were offered by those on shore, after which, 
said brother Sutton, as he looked upon the weeping friends, < This 
is not a sorrowful day to us. It is the happiest day I ever saw. 
We are going to preach the gospel to the heathen. Do you, in this 
Christian land, be careful that you do not neglect it. If you do, 
how will those condemn you to whom we are going ! Friends, think 
of that.' Tho sails being spread and all things ready, at eleven 
o'clock, A. M., the ship moved from the wharf, and the mission- 
aries commenced singing, 

" Yes, my native land, I love thee," &c, 

and continued until their voices were lost in the distance. After 
the ship left the wharf, I stood and gazed one hour, till she appear- 
ed as a mere speck, and then vanished from sight. A more solemn 
scene I never witnessed, nor one that made a deeper impression 
on my mind." 

Immediately after the departure of the missionaries, Mr. Marks 
returned to Portsmouth, and then proceeded in his own convey- 
ance to Byron, in western New York, to attend the eighth session 
of the General Conference, which commenced October 7, 1835. 
The Conference accepted his request for a dismission from the 
agency of the Book Concern, and appointed a Board of eleven 
Trustees to assume his responsibilities. This Board appointed 
Mr. Wm. Burr to act as their agent, which office he has ever 
since retained. The Conference expressed to Mr. Marks their ap- 
probation of the laborious, prompt, and faithful discharge of the du- 
ties committed to his trust, and appointed a committee to prepare 
and publish an article in the Morning Star, expressive of their ap- 
probation, of which the following is a copy. 

<i The Book Agent. At the last session of the General Conference, 
the subscribers were appointed to publish in the Morning Star, an ex- 
pression of that body in relation to the services of our late Book Agent. 
In accordance with that appointment, we present the following for the 
information of our brethren and the public. 

It should be remembered that our Book Concern was commenced 
without any capital. The General Conference in 1831, voted that a 
Book Concern should be established in our denomination, and chose brother 
David Marks Agent for the purpose of accomplishing that object. They 
requested him to publish such books as the Publishing Committee might 
think proper to direct. In 1832, the Conference directed the Agent to 
purchase the Morning Star and printing establishment for the denomin- 
ation, but they neither furnished him with funds or the means of obtain- 
ing any on credit. Not a dollar did they put into his hands to aid him 
in the prosecution of this business. A little reflection will enable any 
person to see that money or credit was indispensable in commencing and 
conducting the Book establishment. The denomination not being a cor- 
porate body, could not sustain the Agent with their credit in any legal 
30 



350 MEMOIRS OF 

capacity whatever. Hence, his only means was personal responsibility, 
by giving his own name and the names of such friends as were willing 
with himself, to jeopardize their temporal property for the sake of ad- 
vancing the cause of God, and the interests of the denomination. In ad- 
dition to the usual evils which attend the obtaining any considerable 
amount of property entirely on credit, our Agent was obliged to com- 
mit the books which he had published into the hands of other agents, in 
order for them to be sold with despatch. This greatly increased his care 
and liabilities. Another fruitful source of perplexity and toil was, that 
the measure was something new in our denomination. Some were 
doubtful of its propriety — others were doubtful of its success, while 
some, probably, were much opposed to its progress. In conducting a 
business which required means to the amount of twelve or fourteen 
thousand dollars, without funds, and against so many doubts and surmi- 
ses, it followed, of course, that the Agent must have great trials, hard- 
ships, and discouragements to encounter. The Concern itself also re- 
quired much labor and great effort to carry it forward. But we confi- 
dently believe the Divine blessing has accompanied the undertaking. 
Brother Marks has now resigned his agency, and has received the ap- 
probation of Conference for his prompt, faithful, and laborious services. 
He has also committed the whole Concern into the hands of the denom- 
ination, which is estimated to be worth $4000 above its debts, and 
which commenced four years since with nothing.* If in the minds of 
any, there has been a suspicion that the Agent has been serving him- 
self, instead of his brethren and the cause of God, we trust that the 
statement of the services which he has performed, and the compensa- 
tion he has received, as published in the Minutes of the last Conference, 
will effectually do away all such impressions. The following is an ex- 
tract from the Agent's report as published in those Minutes. 

" During the first year of my agency, the whole expense of the pub- 
lications issued, amounted to more than $ 4000. To meet these expen- 
ses, I was obliged to use every effort. I travelled 5400 miles, mostly 
with a span of horses, carrying and distributing loads of books, and, 
with my companion, served the Book Concern in various ways, most of 
the time for one year, frequently sitting up whole nights, paying my 
own travelling expenses, which amounted to nearly $500 in cash. To 
balance all this expense of money and the toilsome labors of myself and 
companion, which, on the principle of equality and justice, I could not 
have done short of $800 or $ 1000, I charged only $ 150. The rea- 
sons for my presenting but this trifling account against the Book Con- 
cern were as follows : 

1. I knew that our beloved connexion was not sufficiently interested 
in a book establishment to support it, unless the conductors would bear 
unusual burdens. 

2. I believed that unless I should make unusually low charges, almost 
giving away both expense, money and my services, the conductors and 
friends of the establishment would soon become discouraged, and aban- 
don the object. And if they should do this, not only a failure of the in- 

* The value of the property at this time, including the debts due for books, Star, <fcc, 
was estimated at $ 10246, 60— the debts which the establishment owed, amounted to 
$6222,48. 



DAVID MARKS. 351 

fant establishment would follow, but probably I should be stripped of my 
little all to pay the debts I had already contracted. 

3. Many had already become jealous that I had commenced a great 
speculation, and that I was getting rich very fast, and others were per- 
suaded that I never designed that the General Conference should have 
the profits, in case there should be any. Considering these things, I 
thought the success of the establishment demanded that I should make 
such sacrifices as would convince even those who were most under the 
influence of ignorance and prejudice, that temporal interest was no part 
of my object in taking the agency. 

4. I believed that unless sacrifices were made and jealousies removed, 
the designed establishment must inevitably fail, and that such an occur- 
rence would be a great calamity to the Free-will Baptist denomination, 
and to the souls which are under their influence. 

During the first year of my agency, I became convinced that to en- 
sure success, we [the connexion] must own a printing establishment and 
publish a religious periodical ; I accordingly took measures to secure 
this object, which was accomplished at the session of the General Con- 
ference at Meredith, October, 1832. But here again I was under the 
necessity of risking my property or of abandoning the object of estab- 
lishing a Book Concern : I therefore gave my notes to the amount, in- 
cluding debts before contracted, of $7,500. Nearly all this sum was 
on interest ; and had there been any sudden unfavorable change in the 
times, or loss by fire ; or had I deceased, it is nearly certain that no 
one would have been willing to take my responsibilities, and of course 
a failure must have been the consequence. Notwithstanding these em- 
barrassments, when two other manuscripts were presented by the Com- 
mittee for publication, a few months after, viz : the Scriptural Cate- 
chism and Mr. Sutton's Orissa Mission, I consented to publish them, 
though the expenses would add $2,200 to the debts for which I was 
holden. I did this because I thought that the publication of these works 
would do much good in the world. 

The second year of my service, I charged for time spent in the agen- 
cy by the hour, 12 1-2 cents per hour (finding myself,) and my wages 
amounted to the sum of $ 139,38. I also charged for my expenses in 
travelling 800 miles, entirely for the Book Concern, $40. 

In the course of the succeeding year, I published 5000 copies of the 
" Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will Baptists" — 3000 copies of a 
work by J. G. Pike, called " True Happiness" — 3000 copies of the 
Scriptural Catechism ; and 4000 copies of the Free-will Baptist Regis- 
ter. Times were hard, and to meet the payment of old debts as they 
became due, and the current expenses of the printing establishment, I 
found it exceedingly difficult. I charged this year for my services 
12 1-2 cents per hour, bearing my own expenses, and my wages amount- 
ed to about $ 180. I charged for the expenses incurred in travelling 
about 1000 miles on purpose for the Book establishment, $50. 

During the fourth and last year of my agency, I published only 1000 
copies of the Christian Melody and 5000 copies of the Register for 1836, 
and have found little difficulty in meeting every engagement, and my 
services, compared with the former years, were comparatively easy. It 
became necessary, however, to settle up all the accounts of the estab- 



352 MEMOIRS OF 

lishment from the beginning, and to send a bill to every assistant agent. 
This occupied much time, and with contingent expenses of time, I spent 
on an average six hours and forty minutes per day, for which I charged 
12 1-2 cents per hour, amounting to $250. I charged for my expenses 
in travelling 1200 miles, mostly, or solely for the establishment, $60. 

By the preceding, you will see that I have served this institution as 
Agent, a considerable part of the time for four years. It 

will also be observed that, for all the personal responsibilities, perplexities, 
cares, anxieties, and risk of my own property, in being holden for more 
than $ 14,000 original debts, besides the daily expenses of the office, 
together with the privilege of choosing my own residence and pursuit 
for a support, and to be always ready to meet every demand, I have nev- 
er made any charge.* 

And now, dear brethren, I resign to you the sacred responsibilities of 
my appointment. I have done the best I could — I have received much 
aid from the members of the Publishing Committee, particularly in their 
undersigning my notes, also from assistant agents and other friends. 
The Committee have truly been companions in affliction. They too 
have labored for less than half the value of their services. So have 
many others. I have not alluded to any of my responsibilities, desiring 
a reward, but merely that truth might appear, to the honor of this 
institution. I do not desire a reward. I took these responsibilities upon 
me in the name of the Lord, and money cannot reward me. Now in the 
name of the Lord I resign them. I bid you and my successors, God 



I feel the warmest interest possible in the establishment, and it is 
among my most earnest petitions, that God will give it success. I have 
no interest but the interest of God's cause. This is your cause and 
mine. May God give you wisdom in the disposition of this institution. 
I am with much respect and thankfulness, for the confidence which you 
have reposed in me, your devoted servant, 

David Marks, Book Agent. 
Silas Curtis, ) ^ _ ... 
JohnChaney, \ Committee. 

As the subscription list for the Morning Star had increased to 
nearly five thousand, the Conference voted a second enlargement 
of its size without an increase of the price, and also voted to in- 
struct the Trustees to obtain from the Legislature of New Hamp- 
shire an act of incorporation for their Board. 

It may not be improper to state here, that in accordance with 
the above advice, an application was made to the New Hampshire 
Legislature for an act of incorporation the following June. It was 
refused on account of the abolition character of the Morning Star. 
The Dover Gazette remarked as follows, concerning the rejection 
of their petition. 

* The daily expenses of the office, together with the original debts, during the four 
years that Mr. Marks was Agent, he estimated at $22,000. Ed. 



DAVID MARKS. 353 

" Abolitionism in New Hampshire. It is a fact better known to the 
readers of the Morning Star — the Free-will Baptist paper published in 
this village — than it is to a very great majority of the citizens of New 
Hampshire, that the conductors of that paper have dipped deeply into 
the troubled waters of abolitionism, and have, for the last few months, 
not a little polluted their columns by an advocacy of its very incendiary 
doctrines. They have, during the last week, received a most decided 
rebuke for their conduct. A bill had been introduced into the House of 
Representatives, ' To incorporate the Trustees of the Free-will Baptist 
Printing Establishment and Book Concern,' which was very securely 
progressing through the customary stages, when it was mentioned among 
the members that this establishment had become a vehicle of abolition- 
ism ; this produced an instant inquiry into the truth of the suggestion, 
and the result was that the bill, although zealously advocated by the 
ablest of the federal members , was on Wednesday refused a third reading 
by an overwhelming majority." 

Since the time of this first refusal, the Trustees have regularly 
presented their petition every year, now about ten years, which has 
met with the same repulse, for the same reason. There is a pros- 
pect now that they will obtain their request at the ensuing session 
of the Legislature, as it is believed that at the last election, some 
were put into office who will be true to the principles of human 
freedom. 

After the close of the General Conference, it was found neces- 
sary for Mr. Marks to return to Dover in order to make the trans- 
fer of the property of the Book Concern, which was found to be 
something of a difficult matter, on account of their having no act of 
incorporation. By the aid of a lawyer, however, a deed was drawn 
up and executed satisfactory to all parties. 

Mr. Marks resigned his offices in the Home and Foreign Mis- 
sionary Societies, shipped his goods to New York, and with many 
solemn feelings, bade his New England friends farewell. The 
Holland Purchase yearly meeting had formed a Home Mission So- 
ciety, and during the session of the General Conference, its Board 
solicited Mr. Marks to accept an appointment from them to labor 
in Rochester, N. Y., and try to gather a church. This was a dif- 
ferent field from what he had purposed entering ; but, after con- 
sidering the matter, that he was at liberty to labor little or much, 
as his strength would permit, and that probably he should not have 
the care of providing for his own support, he concluded the circum- 
stances might be as favorable for the improvement of his health, as 
perhaps any other, and accordingly accepted the appointment. The 
Society also at the same time sent another missionary to Buffalo. 
Mr. Marks' travels till the time of entering upon his labors in 
Rochester, are detailed briefly in the following letter, published in 
the Star. 

30* 



354 MEMOIRS OF 

" Dear Brethren, 

As at present, I have not time to write to many of my cor- 
respondents, I must content myself with a little detail in the Star. 
We left Dover about the first of November, and in ten days reach- 
ed Brockport, by stage and canal, a distance of nearly five hundred 
miles. Three days of this time were spent in Arlington, Vt. We 
left the canal at Brockport, and continued our journey to Canada in 
our own conveyance. As a great abundance of rain had fallen, the 
roads were excessively bad, and the mud deeper than it had been 
known to be for several years. We arrived at Zorra, U. C. about 
the 20th of November, and met with many dear friends from whom 
we had been separated for years. 

I visited the churches in London, Southwold, Dunwich and Bur- 
ford, found the brethren in general steadfast, but they much need 
help. Here is a great field for missionary labor. Our Open-com- 
munion Baptist brethren were prospering in some places. The 
Calvinistic Baptists near the Niagara were enjoying precious sea- 
sons. Many, through their labors, had turned to the Lord. The 
Methodists were not so prosperous. Divisions and contentions had 
greatly hindered their usefulness. They were split into three sects, 
called the Ryan, British, and Episcopal Methodists. Towards the 
last of December we once more left the parental roof, and returned 
to the state of New York. I preached by the way in Hamilton 
and St. Catharines. We were detained at Queenston nearly two 
days by the ice in the river, the boatmen refusing to venture 
across. In consequence of this detention, I failed of an appoint- 
ment. We attended the Monroe quarterly meeting in North Mur- 
ray, commencing Dec. 25th, which was a very precious season. A 
Home Mission Society, auxiliary to the New York Home Mission 
Society, was formed, and about one hundred and fifty dollars were 
subscribed or contributed. This quarterly meeting is very pros- 
perous ; union and harmony generally prevail. Its ministers, 
though few, are mostly wholly devoted to the work. It has now 
seventeen churches. New Years' day and the Sabbath follow- 
ing, were spent with the church in Canandaigua. Our meetings 
were solemn and profitable. At the close, several anxious souls 
came forward and seemed unwavering in their decisions to live a new 
life. ***** Pray for a blessing on the 
labors of your brother in tribulation, D. Marks." 

While Mr. Marks was detained in Queenston, he wrote a set of 
resolutions for the government of his life. He had been in the 
habit of doing this for years, but as he was adding to them occa- 
sionally, a detailed notice of this practice has been hitherto omit- 
ted. He employed the leisure his unexpected detention furnished 



DAVID MARKS. 355 

him in systematizing his former rules and adding new ones. Be- 
lieving that the reader of these memoirs will be profited as well as 
interested in the perusal of these rules, and as they exempli- 
fy the care with which he guarded his conduct in the most se- 
cret as well as public walks of life, it is deemed proper to introduce 
them. They were written in book form, with the following title 
page: 

" DAVID MARKS' LAST RESOLUTIONS, 

Made for life, at Queenston, U. C. 

Dec. 23, 3 o'clock, P. M. in the year of my Lord, 1835. 

" Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is 
perfect." Jesus Christ. . 

Resolutions. By the grace of God, I do solemnly make the 
following resolutions, and determine to read them as often as once 
a week, and to keep them faithfully all the days of my life. And, 
my blessed Savior, I pray that thou wouldst keep me steadfast 
to the end. Amen. David Marks. 

I. With regard to my thoughts. 1. I will indulge in no reflec- 
tions nor meditations which I believe will not be useful to me, but 
the moment when vain suggestions first approach, I will thrust them 
from me. 2. I will not think a great deal upon worldly subjects, 
or, at least, not so much as to prevent my meditation being upon 
God's law day and night. 3. I will endeavor to spend twenty 
minutes before every meal in close examination and meditation. 

II. My motives. 1. I will always endeavor to have but one 
motive to lead me forward and influence me to act in every thing, 
and this motive shall be to glorify my Maker. 2. I will endeavor 
to examine carefully my secret motives in all I do, and when I dis- 
cover that my motive is not pure, and for God's glory, and this 
alone, I will not be led by it, but resist it. 

III. In relation to my temper, 1. I will endeavor always to 
keep it calm and without irritability. 2. I will strive hard to be 
always meek and patient in all circumstances. 3. I will endeavor 
to be deliberate in all things, and holy in all my inclinations and 
feelings. 

IV. As to my deeds. 1. I will aim to do nothing except what, 
on examination, I believe to be directly or indirectly commanded 
by God. 2. I will endeavor to perform no deeds, which I am con- 
vinced are merely selfish. 3. I will do nothing which I would be 
ashamed to have known were it by accident or by necessity to be- 
come public. 4. I will not overdo body or mind, but endeavor to 
lay out my work according to the strength which God shall give, 
so as never to bring myself into temptation by needless perplexity. 



856 MEMOIRS OP 

V. As a Christian. 1. I will endeavor to make my Lord and 
Savior Jesus Christ, my guide, leader, pattern, and example. 2. I 
will never be ashamed of Christ, nor to own myself a Christian in 
any company, nor, from fear of reproach, neglect to introduce re- 
ligion hi any place, where I believe the effect would be salutary. 
3. I will never conform to any of the fashions, manners, and cus- 
toms of the world, except I am first convinced of their utility in 
themselves considered, unless it be in a case where a variation 
would be likely to do more harm than conformity. 4. I will en- 
deavor to kneel and pray in secret three times a day, viz., when I 
arise, at noon, and on going to bed ; and I will strive always to 
have my whole soul engaged in prayer when my lips are. 5. I 
will endeavor never to pray to be heard of men, nor merely to con- 
tinue a form, but always pray for what I want and nothing else. 
6. I will endeavor always to attend family worship before break- 
fast, and before supper, both at home and abroad, except in such 
cases as I shall judge it duty to omit it. 

VI. As a minister. 1. I will labor constantly to be intelligent, 
and for this purpose I will attentively read three chapters in the 
Bible by course every day, and will endeavor to spend two hours 
each day in scientific studies, two hours in theological studies, and 
two hours in writing. 2. I will always endeavor to spend one 
hour before every sermon, and every other religious meeting I may 
attend, in study and reflection, preparatory for the sacred services, 
when I can consistently with other duties. 3. I will endeavor al- 
ways to introduce religious conversation and prayer in all places 
where my lot may be cast, andjamong all kinds of company, unless, 
indeed, other circumstances forbid, so that it is evidently duty to 
omit such services. 4. I will always improve every opportunity 
to reprove sin : still I will endeavor to do it with meekness and af- 
fection, both publicly and privately. 5. I will endeavor to spend 
one hour every day in religious visiting and conversation, and al- 
ways endeavor to visit and pray with two families each day, one of 
whom shall be a family I never visited before. 7. I will always 
endeavor to instruct the ignorant with meekness and patience. 

VII. As a husband. 1 . I will always be attentive to learn and 
supply the wants of my dear wife. 2. I will never be impatient, 
quick, nor fretful, nor disposed to fault finding. 3. I will never be 
morose. 4. I will always be attentive. 5. I will always be affec- 
tionate. 6. I will always be very kind. 7. I will never be impo- 
lite. 8. I will always be sociable. 9. I will always be respect- 
ful. 

VIII. As a citizen. 1. I will carefully read and consider the 
things of public interest, and faithfully serve the public. 2. I will 
always treat rulers with respect. 3. Still I will be faithful to truth 



DAVID MARKS. 357 

and justice. 4. I will faithfully warn my country of its dangers. 

5. I will be courteous, and obliging, and kind to all men. 

IX. In relation to my words, 1. They shall be few. 2. They 
shall be well considered. 3. They shall be always serious. 4. 
They shall be always plain. 5. They shall never be slanderous. 

6. They shall always be kind. 7. They shall never exaggerate 
truth. 8. They shall always be designed to do good. 9. I will 
always be cautious what I say and to whom I say it. 10. I will 
always endeavor to think carefully before I speak, especially when 
circumstances do not absolutely demand that I should speak imme- 
diately. 11. I will always, when with Christians and ministers, 
endeavor, according to my ability, to discern what duties they neg- 
lect, and encourage them to renewed diligence and faithfulness. 12. 
I wiU endeavor always, according to my ability, to be teaching sin- 
ners their guilt, and their duty to repent immediately. 13. I will 
strive always to be courteous to my friends, but never flattering. 
14. In my public addresses, I will endeavor to have all my words 
solemn. 15. In private they shall be guarded. 16. All my con- 
versation shall be religious or strictly conformable to religious prin- 
ciples. 

X. As to my temporal concerns. 1. I will not be a slave. 2. 
Nor will I be anxious. 3. I will not be covetous. 4. I will not 
be wasteful. 5. Neither will I be selfish. 6. I will not be pro- 
fuse. 7. Neither will I be gay. 8. I will always endeavor to 
drive my work and never let that drive me. 9. I will be very 
cautious of getting embarrassed in my temporal affairs. 10. I will 
endeavor to contract no needless expense. 11. I will endeavor to 
devote all I have to God, either directly or indirectly. 12. So 
long as my income from my labors, and those of my wife amount 
to $400 per year, I will give, that is, pay out $100 per annum for 
benevolent purposes. 13. So long as the Lord prospers me, I will 
give, that is, pay out twenty-five per cent of the increase of my 
property to God, the estimate to be made Jan. 1, 1836. 

XI. As to my sleep. I will endeavor to sleep eight hours in 
the winter, and seven hours in the summer, or at least lie in bed 
these number of hours, and these hours shall be equally before and 
after midnight, or at least between nine and five o'clock. 

XII. As to general duties. 1. I will endeavor that all my 
preaching shall be affectionate. 2. I will endeavor when circum- 
stances and other duties will permit, to preach from five to seven 
times per week. 3. I will always labor to feel what I preach. 4. 
In labors, meetings of business, &c. &c, I will be very cautious of 
giving offence, yet be firm to truth. 5. I will watch my opportu- 
nities to visit those that are in prison. 6. I will also often visit 
those that are confined in alms houses. 7. I will frequently visit 



358 MEMOIRS OF 

the sick. 8. I will use the best economy I can in all my expen- 
ses, and in all things. 9. I will be kind to the poor, and especially 
to those who are my relatives. 10. Finally, if hereafter I find any 
good thing not included in these resolutions, I will practice the 
same. 11. I will read these resolutions every week for at least 
five years, if I live, and try to keep them without the least varia- 
tion." 

Subsequently he added the following : "1. I will ever watch 
against coarseness, abruptness, and a dogmatical manner of speaking, 
and will labor constantly to abound and excel in meekness, mild- 
ness, complaisance, and sociability, being always neat, kind, gentle, 
instructive, obliging, and agreeable, before all classes of men, but 
especially when with my dearest friend. May God enable me al- 
ways to be faithful, kind, and obliging to her. 2. In all my con- 
versation, I will labor to be humble, gentle, candid, without self 
conceit, or ostentation, always showing a deference to the opinions 
of others, especially those of the aged and the learned. 3. I will 
endeavor never to speak a hasty or impatient word, however great 
a provocation I may receive, but will always aim to be deliberate, 
swift to hear and slow to speak. 4. I will reprove tenderly every 
instance of wickedness I witness among friends or foes. 5. I will 
endeavor to use all my strength and energies, both of body and 
mind, so as to do the greatest possible amount of good. g|§r Re- 
member this. 6. I will aim at perfection in all I do with body or 
mind, gg 3 Don't forget the extent of this rule. 7. Finally, I will 
make holiness of heart and life the only object of my living, that I 
may be prepared to glorify God and save souls." 

In a revision and adoption of his rules, Aug. 2, 1837, he super- 
scribed them his " Golden, life-bound, perfect, irreversible, manly, 
self-abasing, God-honoring, invaluable resolutions," and signed his 
name with a seal. 

Allusion has already been made to his sufferings from hunger 
while he could bear very little food. At times, his agony from 
this source was so great, that he would weep like a child, and look 
around wishfully upon the doors and furniture of the room, and 
say he could scarcely refrain from gnawing them. He had previ- 
ously written rules regulating his diet, which he thus prefaced : 
" Whereas, I have made several solemn resolutions in relation to 
my diet, which my exceeding sufferings in hunger, have, as it were, 
compelled me to violate, or vary from, I do now hereby make the 
following." He then particularized the quality and quantity of 
each meal, as he thought most conducive to his health, and at the 
close, wrote thus: "Penalties. For violating these rules in 
thought, I will live on nought but bread and water, twelve ounces 
each for one day. For violating them in the amount of drink, I 



DAVID MARKS. 359 

will live thus two days. For violating them in eating, I will live 
thus ten days. 

February 3, eleven o'clock, A. M. Arraigned myself for trial, 
having broken my rules, and sentenced myself to live on bread 
and water according to the above penalty ten days. February 10. 
Finally, I have run away from the penalty ! What shall I do to 
conquer a diseased appetite ? O Lord, do thou strengthen and 
help me." 



CHAPTER XXVI. 

Mr. Marks' Labors in Rochester, N. T. fyc.from Jan. 1836, to 

July 1838. 

Mr. Marks entered upon his labors in Rochester, under the di- 
rection of the New York Home Mission Society, the second Sab- 
bath in January 1836, with somewhat improved health. Much 
to his gratification, his only sister, over whom he had for years ex- 
ercised a parental care, now became a member of his family. 
About this time, Mr. Burr wrote him some particulars of an effort 
(which came near being successful) to close the columns of the 
Star against the discussion of slavery, and also of the opposition 
and fiery trials he still had to encounter to keep the Star unshack- 
led. The following is an extract from the reply he wrote Mr. 
Burr. 

" My heart bleeds for the sins of the church. My soul is often 
in agony when I see professing Christians opposing the Scriptural 
method, and the only possible, peaceful method, of exterminating sla- 
very, viz. to stop doing wrong now, to cease to do evil now, and let 
the oppressed go free. It is not in my power to help doubting the 
genuineness of the piety of such professors, the depth and solidity 
of their Christian principles. Abolition principles are not mere 
opinions. They are self-evident principles — principles that 
God has abundantly taught and written as with a sun-beam in his 
word which cannot be broken. O my dear brother, God has put 
feelings in my heart for his down-troddren poor that it would 
be vain for me to attempt to express. I do often feel that I " re- 
member those that are in bonds as bound with them." O, for what 
would I be willing to be a slave ! — to be the property of another ! 
— to have my wife torn from me, sold as human ware at public 
auction ! But I stop. I cannot go on. There will be a better 
state of things, I know there will, for there is a God in heaven. 
He has promised to deliver the ? needy when he crieth, the poor al- 



860 MEMOIRS OF 

so, and him that hath no helper, and to break in pieces the oppress* 
or.' And though professed Christians may ' speak wickedly con- 
cerning oppression' and God may say of them as he did of his 
ancient people : ' Even of late my people is risen up as an enemy,' 
victory will yet turn on the side of justice and truth. I have hope 
for my country, for though our princes [President and governors] 
plead for the system that ' sheds blood and destroys souls in order to 
get dishonest gain, and many of our prophets daub them with un- 
tempered mortar, seeing vanity and divining lies unto them, saying, 
1 Thus saith the Lord' — slavery is my institution — keep it sacred 
— when the Lord hath not spoken. For though ' the people of 
the land have used oppression, and exercised robbery, and have 
vexed the poor and the needy ; yea, they have oppressed the 
stranger wrongfully ;' yet when God has sought for men among us 
that should ' make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before him 
for the land that he should not destroy it,' he has found some prec- 
ious ones that in the midst of opprobrium, dangers, perils, and even 
death, have stood up with the spirit of martyrs, and plead the cause 
of the oppressed. Therefore God has not yet ' poured out his in- 
dignation upon us, he has not yet consumed us with the fire of his 
wrath ; our own way he has not recompensed upon our heads.' 
See Ezekiel 22:27 — 31. I love, I revere, I venerate those no- 
ble souls that have the moral courage, and the Christian principle, 
in this evil day, in these degenerate times, to go forth in the midst 
of the storm of wrath, persecution, and bitter reviling, and plead 
the cause of bleeding Zion and suffering humanity." 

The following brief summary of Mr. Marks' labors in Roches- 
ter, are taken from his quarterly reports to the Executive Board of 
the Free-will Baptist New York Home Mission Society. 

First Report, March 31. * * * "In commenc- 

ing my labors my first object was to procure a place for meetings. 
I succeeded in obtaining leave to occupy the Court House, and on 
Sabbath, January 10, preached my first sermons. My subjects 
were a summary of the doctrine which I proposed to preach in 
my future ministrations, and the duties of a minister of Christ. 
Since that time I have preached in the Court House three times 
every Sabbath. For the greater edification of my regular hear- 
ers, I followed a system in the order of my discourses, so as to em- 
brace in the end every important branch of the doctrine of Divine 
Revelation. The following are the subjects on which I have 
preached one or more discourses in the systematic chain of ser- 
mons which I proposed to deliver. The folly of atheism — Incon- 
sistency of deism — Inconsistency of irreligion — The contradictions 
of infidelity — The external evidences of Christianity — The Scrip- 
ture miracles — The internal evidences of Christianity — Existence 



DAVID MARKS. 361 

of God— -His unity — His eternity and immutability — His omni- 
presence and omniscience — His power — His justice — His good- 
ness — His truth — His mercy — His wisdom. In connection with 
these discourses, I have given a number on various subjects suited 
to the state of the congregation, such as, Man's disposition to reject 
the gospel — The excellence of the Scriptures — Their commenda- 
tion to the consciences of all men — The effects of the gospel— Its 
fruits, an evidence of its divine authenticity-- God's call upon sin- 
ners — The invitations of the gospel— Repentance — Baptism a bu- 
rial — The witnesses against the impenitent — The confession of 
Christ — The cross of Christ — God's expostulations with the wick- 
ed — Christ a stone of stumbling — The sinner's encouragement to 
follow Christ. In all these discourses, I have endeavored to intro- 
duce something practical, remembering that a right practice is the 
great object which the preaching of the gospel is designed to ef- 
fect. My congregation has usually consisted of from fifty to one 
hundred persons ; sometimes more. The meetings have been or- 
derly, and the hearers generally very solemn. A number have 
given heed to the word, and six persons have given good evidence 
that they have passed from death unto life. I have baptized sev- 
en ; twenty one have pledged their names for the support of the 
meeting, and to unite in a church when there shall be one form- 
ed. None of those who propose to unite possess much property, 
so that at present, little more can be expected from them than to 
defray the expenses of the meeting for fuel, lights, and attendance. 
Their being poor in this world is, however, no cause of discourage- 
ment, for among this class the gospel has usually obtained its first 
reception. The Scripture saith, " You see your calling, brethren— 
God hath chosen the poor of this world." Some of these breth- 
ren have excellent gifts in exhortation and prayer, so that, in the 
absence of a preacher, they frequently hold very interesting pray- 
er meetings. Besides the twenty one who have given their names, 
there are a few others who are attached to our meeting that, will 
probably join when the church is formed. The general state of 
religion in Rochester is very good. Eight of the churches have 
held protracted meetings since the 15th of January, and a glorious 
revival has spread through the city in which many hundreds have 
been converted. 

During my stay in Rochester, I have preached more or less in 
Byron, Ogden, Batavia, Parma, Riga, Chili, Clarkson, Penfield, 
Canandaigua, Brighton, and Greece. In all I have preached thirty 
times in towns and neighborhoods adjacent to Rochester and its vi- 
cinity, and have spent about two weeks on councils in settling diffi- 
culties in Byron and Attica churches. I have also been present at 
two prayer meetings every week in Rochester. These have been 
31 



362 MEMOIRS OF 



very useful and well attended. Having as yet scarcely regulated 
my affairs in settling my residence, I have been able to devote lit- 
tle time to visiting. I have generally aimed to spend about six hours 
daily in study. 

The Court House is old and leaky, and not very convenient for 
public worship, and as in former years it has been the meeting 
place for infidels and false teachers, its character as a place of wor- 
ship has not been very reputable. Many who do not attend our 
meeting say they would, if we had a convenient and respectable 
place for meetings. Indeed, it will be extremely difficult to suc- 
ceed in Rochester to any considerable extent without a meeting 
house. To this it may be added, that real estate is rising at an un- 
precedented rate, and a building lot that now costs SI 000 will 
probably cost twice this sum twelve months hence. On the 
whole, I consider the field now opened for the Free-will Baptists to 
do good in this city to be very great. Doubtless Rochester will, 
at no distant period, become a great city and a centre of influence 
from which thousands of characters in other places will be form- 
ed for eternity. Yours, affectionately, 

David Marks/' 

Second Report. June 30. " In my last report, I named that twen- 
ty-one had given their names to unite in a church. April 10, one 
was organized, consisting of twenty-eight members, fourteen of 
whom I had recently baptized. I was assisted in the organiza- 
tion by two ministers from the Monroe quarterly meeting. Com- 
mittees had been previously appointed to examine carefully the 
character and piety of each applicant. The different members 
subscribed to a covenant and declaration of sentiments, embodying 
the great principles, doctrine, and practice, of the Bible. Our 
evening assemblies have decreased, in consequence of business and 
the shortness of the evenings, but our congregation in the day time 
increases. We have held a stated prayer meeting twice a week, 
and a covenant meeting once a month. These meetings have been 
well attended, and the brethren seem well engaged. Though the 
revival has subsided, we have no reason to be discouraged. We 
are treated with much kindness by all classes, and especially by 
all evangelical Christians. For want of funds to purchase a libra- 
ry, we have not been able to establish a Sabbath school with pros- 
pects of success ; for children would not come to our school, if we 
could not encourage them with books as do others. We meet with 
a great loss in not sustaining one. We have a number of mem- 
bers well qualified for teachers who would enlist with all their 
hearts. Once or twice I have resolved that I would purchase a 
library at my own expense, but to confess the truth I could not, 
for, besides taking on myself several responsibilities to a considera- 



M 



DAVID MARKS. 363 

ble amount directly or indirectly connected with the mission, I have 
been necessitated to supply my own wants to a considerable extent, 
and this with more difficulty and embarrassment than I could en- 
dure, without turning my attention from the word of God. [At 
this time, if I mistake not, Mr. Marks had received but about twen- 
ty dollars directly from the mission society. He often went out 
during the week among the churches, and raised contributions 
which he credited to the society. Ed.] Thus I have had little 
time to visit and hold personal intercourse with my hearers, a la- 
bor which adds greatly to a minister's success and usefulness. 
Since my last report, I have attended the Monroe and Benton quar- 
terly meetings, in both of which collections were taken for Home 
Missions. I have usually preached three times on the Sabbath, 
still following a systematic course in theology, excepting when pe- 
culiar circumstances required another subject. I have also preach- 
ed in Brighton, Walworth, Gorham, and Benton, and several times 
in each of the following towns, Parma, Penfield, Canandaigua, and 
Milo. 

Experience had convinced us more and more, that without a meet- 
ing house, our success in Rochester must be extremely limited, and 
that to delay to obtain a site for one would render it more difficult 
and expensive to procure a good location. About two months 
since, we examined two convenient lots, and tacitly promis- 
ed ourselves that we would attempt to secure one of them, but 
while we waited, the price of one was raised $500, and that of the 
other $ 1000. Then we partially resolved to organize our society 
according to law, raise what subscription we could, and if necessa- 
ry, hire a few hundred dollars to make the first payment. The 
subject was laid before the Monroe quarterly meeting : they advis- 
ed us to secure a lot and build a house as soon as possible, and 
pledged themselves to do all in their power to sustain us. * * 
* * I took measures to have our society incorporated accord- 
ing to law, and after searching the city one week for the best site 
we could obtain, by the advice of our leading brethren, I purchas- 
ed for them a lot fifty-six feet by one hundred and twenty-six, on 
the corner of Buffalo and King streets. Several gentlemen give 
encouragement that they will aid us considerably.* We have ven- 
tured to appoint six trustees, and have issued proposals for building 
a stone church, fifty feet by seventy-five, the basement to contain a 
vestry to be ready for use by the 1st of Jan. next, and the house 
to be finished within twelve months. We think we can raise three 
thousand dollars in Rochester, and to encourage the work I have 

* One gentleman, a prominent member of the third Presbyterian church, said he 
would raise one thousand dollars. 



364 MEMOIRS OF 

promised to subscribe five hundred dollars, and have solemnly cov- 
enanted with the trustees to stand by them. 

Now, brethren, the subscription is printed : one hundred copies 
are ready, and shall we present them to the public in Rochester, 
and among our churches in the surrounding country ? 

Yours in love, David Marks." 

The Board approbated the proceedings of the church, and ad- 
vised them to go forward. 

Mr. Marks' third quarterly report is lost, and for the ensuing 
three months there is no record of his labors. On his return to 
Rochester after meeting the Board, he learned that three church- 
es, who contemplated building houses of worship, had circulated 
subscriptions through the city. Several friendly gentlemen advis- 
ed that the circulation of the subscription for the Free-will Baptist 
house be deferred a few weeks, as they thought much more suc- 
cess would be insured, than to follow directly after so many solici- 
tations. Accordingly it was decided to let the matter rest for a 
season. Mr. Marks hired, on his own responsibility, at a high in- 
terest, five hundred dollars to meet the first payment on the meet- 
ing house lot, and a small house and lot purchased in connection 
with it for a parsonage. He prosecuted his labors much as he had 
done, but struggling with increasing embarrassments. In the lat- 
ter part of August, Mr. Abner Kneeland, the noted infidel, came to 
Rochester, and by the intrigue and misrepresentation of some infi- 
dels in the city, got possession of the Court House on the afternoon 
of Sabbath Aug. 21. Mr. Marks read a statement in the meeting 
from the sheriff, which, with other circumstances, exposed the du- 
plicity that had been used. He then dismissed his congregation, 
advising them to go to some other meeting, but thought it his duty 
to listen to Mr. Kneeland and give a public reply. He did so, and 
also wrote out Mr. Kneeland's arguments, presented in three lec- 
tures, and his own replies, which were subsequently published in 
the Morning Star.* In defence of this course, he said, " For years, 

* Mr. Kneeland, in a public assembly in Boston, Mass. not far from the time he was in 
Rochester, dared the Almighty to strike him dead, and gave him five minutes in which 
to do it, holding his watch in his hand, with his arm extended, until the minutes had ex- 
pired, and then tauntingly said: " Where is now your God ?" For wise reasons, his in- 
sulted Maker continued his life till a few months since, when he was arrested by the 
ragings of a fever in Iowa, and was said to have passed unconsciously to the judgment. 
Directly over his head, hung the prayer of a *• Free thinker," written by himself, and 
around his room the pictures of Tom Paine, Voltaire, and their infamous associates. 
It is said that during the last six years of his life, he labored zealously and assiduously 
to plant a seat for atheism in the valley of the West. On the banks of the Des Moines 
in Iowa, he located his paradise, and hoped to see a generation arise, who should open- 
ly proclaim, ■* There is no God." But the Lord has laughed at his impotent efforts, and 
as now over the sleeping dust of Voltaire, the great champion of infidelity in the old 
world, stands a Christian sanctuary for devout worshippers, so in this seat of the infidel 
Kneeland, it is stated that " there are now five Christian churches, and five educated or- 
dained ministers, preaching salvation by the blood of the Lamb." 



^ DAVID MARKS. 365 

I have thought that ministers ought not to pursue such a dignified 
and independent manner, as they usually do, in relation to the at- 
tacks of infidels. We ought to meet every opposer, and with all 
meekness and patience accommodate ourselves to the weakest ca- 
pacity, and condescend to answer plainly and familiarly every ar- 
gument which might deceive even the most ignorant. If ministers 
will not throw themselves into the breach, who will? If those 
whom God has set for the defence of the gospel will not accommo- 
date themselves and their arguments to the condition and capaci- 
ties of the unlearned, and the haters of religious restraints, who 
will ? Is it right to give up this multitude ?" 

The opposition of the infidels in Rochester was aroused, and 
through their influence it was decided that the Court House should 
be closed against all stated religious meetings. The church then 
met in a stone school house in a distant part of the city, and after- 
wards in a brick building on the corner of Ann and State streets. 

In October, Mr. Marks attended the first anniversary of the 
New York Anti Slavery Society in Utica, as a delegate from the 
Rochester Anti Slavery Society. Mr. Gerritt Smith and Alvan 
Stewart, Esq. were among the speakers. 

In the mean time pecuniary difficulties had continued to thicken. The 
season had been the most unfavorable of any for many years. Crops 
were generally cut off, and as the Mission Society was mostly de- 
pendent on the contributions of farmers, it had received no funds, 
its Board had become discouraged, and informed Mr. Marks that 
such was the scarcity, they were utterly unable to redeem their 
pledge to support him. They said to him, that if he wished to 
leave, he had their approbation in so doing, but it would be grati- 
fying to them if he could remain. He was now brought into tri- 
als he had not anticipated. He had been living for a time on 
credit, expecting funds from the society to meet these expenses- 
His little home in Canandaigua, in consequence of the rise of re- 
al estate, he had sold for $2100, in an exchange for a piece of 
woodland two miles from the village. This he tried to sell, but 
found times had become so hard, that he could not without a great 
sacrifice. His only alternatives were to abandon the church in 
Rochester, or do something to meet his expenses. After much 
consideration and prayer, he concluded to do the latter. Perse- 
verance was one of the constituents of his character, and he had 
been accustomed to struggle with difficulties. His health had great- 
ly improved, but he dared not enter upon any business that would 
materially add to his mental labors. He soon had an opportunity 
to engage with a partner in lumbering, and thought he had made 
arrangements that would secure him means to meet his expenses, 
31* 



366 MEMOIRS OF 

and yet leave most of his time for ministerial duties. The follow- 
ing is taken from his fourth report to the Home Mission Board. 

December 29, 1836. 
Dear brethren, 

You recollect that at your last meeting, you informed me that 
you were unable to redeem your pledge to sustain me, and that I 
was at liberty to leave, &c. After deep reflection and much pray- 
er for Divine assistance, I felt satisfied for the following reasons, 
that it was duty to remain, although I was well aware that trials 
and afflictions awaited me. 1. The little church that had been 
gathered was the fruit of much toil, watching, and many prayers, 
and to my feelings it was as cruel as death to leave them without a 
shepherd. 2. The thoughts of the dishonor it would bring on our 
denomination and the cause, seemed more than I could endure. 3. 
I had already contracted debts to some amount for living in the 
city, and as the pressure of the times had become such that I had 
been unable to turn my property into money, I could not pay my 
debts and leave honorably. So I committed my case to Him who 
has promised that " No good thing will he withhold from him that 
walketh uprightly," being perfectly aware that my temporal em- 
barrassments would exceed all through which I had ever passed. 
But considering the extremely interesting field of labor before me, 
that was white, all ready to harvest, notwithstanding all the dif- 
ficulties and afflictive circumstances that surrounded me, the only 
alternative that seemed presented in the path of duty was — to 
enter into business that would afford me relief till I could make 
a different disposition of my affairs. * * * * 
I have arranged my business with a view of having as much time 
as possible for ministerial labor. To benefit the church and the 
world is the only object for which I am willing to live, and to which 
I am determined that, through the grace of God, every act of my 
life shall be subservient. Consequently in the course I have pur- 
sued, I feel peace of conscience, and whenever the necessity of its 
further pursuit is removed, it will be with joy inexpressible that I 
shall relinquish it. 

Since the meeting of the Board in August last, some have been 
converted among us, nine have been added to our number, and 
there is a prospect of more additions soon. Some in our congre- 
gation are inquiring, " What they shall do to be saved," and we 
are looking for a general outpouring of the Spirit. Several of our 
members, on account of the hard times, have taken dismissions and 
left the city. Our present number is thirty seven. Our monthly 
meetings, weekly prayer meetings, and four meetings on the Sab- 
bath, are regularly attended with interest and profit. A more im- 



DAVID MARKS* 367 

portant field can hardly be found, and one that can wholly devote him- 
self to the work, has great opportunities for winning souls to Christ. 
Yours, in the bonds of the blessed gospel, 

David Marks." 

The Secretary of the Board presented Mr. Marks the following: 

" Batavia, Dec. 30, 1836. 
To all whom it may concern : — 

This certifies that Elder David Marks' labors at Rochester 
have been successful and satisfactory to this Board. But such 
are the embarrassments of the Society, that we cannot redeem our 
pledge to support him in Rochester, nor shall we be able to do any 
thing towards his support for several months to come. So we are 
forced to the painful necessity of withdrawing that pledge, and 
leaving him to depend on his own efforts, and those of individuals 
who may feel interested. Though his embarrassments are great, 
he has determined that it is his duty to remain in Rochester under 
the direction of this Board. This, therefore, is to entreat all 
who feel any interest in sustaining the mission at Rochester, to 
render our missionary in that place all the immediate aid in their 
power, in order to relieve him from his present necessities. 

Done by order of the Executive Committee of the New York 
Home Mission Society. 

Phinehas Ford, Corresponding Secretary" 

Mr. Marks continued his labors in Rochester through the win- 
ter with some success, and also frequently preached with the 
churches in the country. January 4, 1837, he preached the dedica- 
tion sermon of the Free-will Baptist meeting house in Penfield, 
from Haggai 2:7 — 9. He enjoyed remarkable freedom on this occa- 
sion, and it w r as a season of most thrilling interest. 

The embarrassments in the commercial world had now become 
unexampled in the history of our country. Many of the oldest 
and wealthiest firms in our cities had suffered a total wreck. Lit- 
tle else than failures and pecuniary distresses were the subjects of 
conversation. Mr. Marks, in common with others, met with severe 
losses from unexpected and unforeseen causes. April 18, he wrote 
the following : 

" Whereas, my embarrassments have increased upon me almost 
without measure and without limits, insomuch that I feel quite dis- 
couraged, and ready to give up, and make an assignment of my 
property in order to pay my debts, and get clear from embarrass- 
ments, and whereas, this course might be very prejudicial to my 
usefulness in the world, and whereas, in my present hurried state, 
I can neither enjoy life nor be useful, I do most solemnly make 
the following promises, that I may attain to the object of my exis- 



368 MEMOIRS OF 

tence. 1. I will not give up -under discouragements, nor permit 
disappointments to wear upon my spirit, but do my duty in all 
things, and be patient. 2. I will uniformly be very forbearing and 
meek toward all men, and endeavor to preserve a happy frame of 
mind, and, as much as possible, peace toward all men. 3. I will 
steadily use all possible diligence, and strive in one year from this 
day to clear myself from all debts, even though nothing should be 
left me, and then enter the most rigid course of economy, in order 
that my mind may be free for intellectual improvement and preach- 
ing the gospel the rest of my life. 4. I will never contract anoth- 
er debt to the amount of a shilling, unless I become so straitened 
that I cannot honestly avoid it. This I will do, that, as a minister 
of Jesus Christ, I may be free and not be entangled in the affairs 
of this life. 5. I will be content to be poor for Christ's sake, as 
long as I live, and as fast as I get any thing, and I can honestly de- 
vote it to advance religion, I will do so. The glory of God shall 
be my only object and aim." 

He made repeated but unsuccessful efforts to extricate himself 
from his embarrassments. Still he continued to meet his engage- 
ments till about the middle of June. In the mean time he wrote to 
Mr. Burr on this subject as follows : 

"Rochester, June 18, 1837. 

My dear brother, 

* * * Disappointment has succeeded diappoint- 
ment, and one misfortune has followed another, as though they 
' loved each other's steps,' till I am brought into deep trials, and 
causes, unforeseen by mortal eyes, have entangled me in embar- 
rassments from which I had always determined to keep myself free. 
I never entered into business so long as I saw any possibility of 
sustaining the mission in Rochester by any other course. I did it 
in the fear of God, and with as much conviction of duty as I ever 
appeared before an assembly to address them on the concerns of 
eternity. Could I have foreseen the present commercial distress, 
I should have left Rochester, when the Board informed me that 
they could not aid me ; or had I not been so unsuspecting of wick- 
edness in those with whom I have had to do, I might have escaped 
many of my present difficulties. No, my brother, whatever may 
be the opinions of others, or the fears of my friends, I know, and 
my Heavenly Father knows, that I have not been worldly minded. 
I have never sought for this world, and in the arrangement of all 
my temporal affairs, my eye has been single to God's glory. 

You are doubtless as well acquainted with the pressure of the 
times as I am. In this city it is dreadful. The most wealthy and 
responsible have failed in meeting their engagements, and several 






DAVID MARKS. 369 

have had their notes protested at the bank. The suffering among 
the poor in this city is dreadful. Provisions are extremely high, 
[flour was then $10 per barrel, and potatoes $1,25 per bushel,] 
and all business has nearly ceased. 

I am now settling up my concerns. I expect to pay my debts, 
and when I have done that, I do not expect to have any thing left 
whatever. Amidst it all, I feel peace of conscience and calmness 
of soul. I have nearly all my life been acquainted with pri- 
vations. I have known the pangs of suffering from want, and yet, 
if it is the will of my Heavenly Father, I can bid poverty a cheer- 
ful welcome, for I have been brought to this, while I have been 
walking in what I believed to be the path of duty, though I will 
not say I have not misjudged. Until recently, I have hoped to 
save something, but I have come to the conclusion to sell every 
article I possess to pay my debts, and in these times they must go 
much below their value ; but I must be released from worldly 
anxieties, and when I get liberated once more, I think it will be 
my duty to remain so. The cares I have had for a few years past, 
if continued, will soon carry me to my grave. * * * * You 
wrote about my taking an agency for the New Hampshire Anti- 
Slavery Society, but I am not fit for any agency. All the ener- 
gies of my mind have been so long on the stretch, that I do not 
think that I should be useful in any such sphere. I do not know 
what I shall do. I do not expect to be able to travel much, as for 
years past, the exposures consequent on travelling, have invariably 
brought me on a sick bed. I have felt as though the church here 
must not go down — but for a season past, such dark clouds have 
hung over my prospects, that I have at times almost despaired. 
Still God has been with us in our meetings, and of late, we have 
frequently had tokens of mercy and interpositions of Providence, 
which have been too plain to be misunderstood. At our last meet- 
ing, we had five applications for membership, which have been re- 
ceived. Our prospects as a church are good, if a preacher could 
be sustained. We are well united, have a Bible class, and a Sab- 
bath school. The Home Mission Board treat me with much af- 
fection and kindness. They sympathize with me in my afflictions, 
and if they could, would gladly relieve me. 

As a nation, I know not what is before us, but it appears to me 
that days of greater trouble are at hand. I am expecting them. God 
is going to wean his children from the world, and disappoint their 
ambitious schemes. O, my brother, may we be prepared for the 
day of trial. May we labor wholly for God, and fight manfully in 
the day of battle. I long to see you, and pour out my whole heart 
to you, but if we never more meet in this world, I trust we shall 
in the abodes of unsullied purity, where the gales of adversity 



370 MEMOIRS OF 

cease to blow, and ' the wicked cease from troubling.' Remember 
me, especially in your prayers to Almighty God. There is rest for 
the weary in heaven, blessed be God. Farewell. 

Your affectionate brother, David Marks." 

In the latter part of June, Mr. Marks received a letter from a 
friend, who frankly expressed his fear that an eagerness to get rich 
had induced him to enter into business, and had brought on his 
misfortunes. Some extracts from his reply to this letter are given, 
as illustrative of the spirit with which he bore the censures of 
friends, and received reproofs which he thought were unmerited. 

" I thank you for your Christian admonitions and your kind ad- 
vice. I cannot say that I have not erred in engaging in worldly 
business, but if I have, it has been through mistaken views of duty. 
It was not inclination that led me to it, for I never did any thing 
in my life, that was so contrary to my feelings, and so crossing to 
my disposition. It was the farthest thing possible from my ambi- 
tion to be called a ' man of business.' * * * Years ago, I 
gave up the world, and consecrated myself and every thing I had 
to God, and ever since, so far as I know, I have acted on this prin- 
ciple of entire consecration. My conscience bears me witness, that 
neither love of ease, wealth, fame, or honor, have ever since actu- 
ated my course. All the value I have set on property has been 
only proportionate to the ability it gives its possessor to extend the 
influence of the Redeemer's kingdom. Aside from this, I have 
looked upon poverty as the happiest state. Neither have I thought 
that a Christian, in this day of benevolent enterprise, is excusable 
in retaining any more property in his hands than a bare compe- 
tence, except in such cases, as he has evidence that he can best glo- 
rify God in so doing. As for myself, I have had to provide for a 
sickly sister, in obedience to my mother's dying injunction. My 
aged father i3 very infirm and in extreme poverty, and as he gave 
six years of my time (from the age of fifteen to twenty-one) to the 
church, I have thought that filial claims required me to assist him. 
Considering my duty as connected with these circumstances, I have 
thought that I should be more free from care, and in a situation for 
greater usefulness, by retaining in my hands a part of the goods 
committed to my charge. When I returned here from N. England, 
as I was nearly worn out with cares, anxieties, and responsibili- 
ties, I thought it would be right for me to retire to some obscure 
corner, where I could enjoy quiet and retirement, and still devote 
what remained of my shattered faculties to the cause of God. I 
had selected, in my own mind, the London quarterly meeting in 
Upper Canada, as the place of my comparative seclusion, and it 
was with inexpressible delight that I was anticipating the sweets of 



DAVID MARKS. 371 

rest. But my brethren in this yearly meeting insisted that I should 
come to Rochester. They spread out before me the necessity of 
our having a church in this city and promised to sustain me. It 
was very crossing to give up my scheme of rest, but as I had not 
for years dared to confer with flesh and blood, where the advance- 
ment of the cause was concerned, and viewing myself a servant of 
the church, I finally consented, thinking at the same time that if I 
had no care for my own support, I should be freer than I had ever 
before been since I commenced preaching the gospel. So I went 
to Rochester." ****** 

Mr. Marks again made a brief entry in his journal, as follows : 
" July 3, 1837, I have been exceedingly embarrassed in worldly 
affairs, and for the first time have been unable to pay my debts, 
though in fifteen years I have contracted debts to the amount of 
$30,000, and never to this time have I had a note protested, nor 
have I suffered any note to become due, without previously obtain- 
ing an extension, except in two instances of forgetting small sums. 
I had ever considered it immoral to fail in the least engagement ; 
and finding myself thus circumstanced, on the 15th of June, I met 
a council which I had previously requested, consisting of the exec- 
utive committee of the New York Home Mission Society, and sev- 
eral ministers and brethren in the Monroe quarterly meeting. I 
gave a full disclosure, in writing, to this council of all my financial 
concerns, and plans to pay my debts. In view of the existing 
commercial embarrassments, they unanimously advised me to make 
an assignment of my property for the benefit of my creditors. I 
concluded to take their advice, and, June 23, I made an assignment 
to Messrs. Hoyt and Porter, Christian gentlemen of high standing 
and integrity of character, with whom I had had much business in 
the book line. I gave up all, not reserving a single dollar's worth 
of household furniture, or of any thing whatever, not excepting any 
of the articles given Mrs. Marks by her parents, nor any of the 
books or presents we had received from friends, nor a piece of land 
[five acres] the use of which I had given to my poor aged father 
in the infirmities of declining life. I wept about nothing of an 
earthly nature except this latter circumstance and my library, 
which had been gathered with much care, and had cost me about 
seven hundred dollars. By this failure, I lost about four thousand 
dollars, which had come to me by school teaching, publishing books, 
the rise in the value of my little home in Canandaigua, and by my 
wife. 

But I do not mourn this loss so much on my own account. I have 
no anxiety for my life, what I shall eat, what I shall drink, or 
wherewithal I shall be clothed. But I most deplore tl$ occasion 
which my failure may give to the enemies of God, to injure the 



372 MEMOIRS OF 

cause of religion. I have ever felt since I commenced preaching, 
that I would rather be burned at the stake, than do any thing to 
hinder the success of the gospel. This reflection has sometimes so 
distressed me, as to make me sick, and at other times, my agony 
has been such, that had it not been for the consciousness of the in- 
tegrity of heart in which I have walked before God, I fear that 
reason would have tottered from her throne. As Messrs. Hoyt 
and Porter wish me to act as their agent in settling up my affairs, 
I hope, through the blessing of God, to be able to discharge all 
my obligations honorably, though to do it I shall be subjected for a 
time to worldly cares which are a burden to my soul. When I 
found I could hold out no longer, I thought it would be wisdom to 
call the members of the church together, that they might all take 
letters, and then disband. I went to meeting on the following Sab- 
bath, thinking of this course, and laboring under the most discour- 
aging feelings, when, to my surprise, we had five applications for 
church membership. I felt my heart filled with thankfulness, and 
it seemed as though I was standing still to see the salvation of 
God. I have come to the conclusion that it is my duty to do all I 
can, while I remain here, to keep the church together, maintain its 
discipline, and trust in God to send them a shepherd when I leave. 

July 4, I left Rochester, and during five days following, preached 
twice in Gorham, once in Jerusalem, and twice in Potter at the 
Yates quarterly meeting, [formerly called Benton,] where I re- 
ceived much kindness, and felt greatly comforted by the sympa- 
thies of my brethren. Sabbath, July 9, I enjoyed a precious day 
with the church in Rochester, and baptized two, who were added to 
our number." 

Mr. Marks continued his labors with the church in Rochester 
till June, 1838. In addition to his usual Sabbath duties, he preached 
a sermon early in the morning to the prisoners in the jail. During 
the rest of the week, notwithstanding his cares, he usually spent a 
portion of each day in religious study or religious visits. In Janu- 
ary and February, he had the satisfaction of seeing considerable 
interest manifested in his meetings, and several conversions. He 
was frequently told by members of other churches, that individuals, 
at different times, had been received into their communion, who, in 
the relation of their religious experience, dated their awakening 
under his preaching. It was a great comfort to him that souls 
were converted through his instrumentality, although he was not 
permitted to gather the fruits. 

In the mean time, he was very diligent in settling his affairs, but 
on account of the unprecedented scarcity of money, he had to sell 
almost ^ery thing at a great sacrifice. His Canandaigua proper- 
ty, which, in the exchange he made, was valued at $2100, only 



DAVID MARKS. 373 

brought him $355. He began to fear what he had little anticipa- 
ted, that he should be left in debt, after he had disposed of every 
article. This fear was subsequently realized, and he finally found 
himself in debt at least one thousand or twelve hundred dollars 
more than his means would pay. Painful as was this circumstance, 
he did not sink under it, nor feel that he was absolved from his ob- 
ligations to fulfill his engagements, because he had given up all he 
possessed. He told his creditors, that if he lived, they might ex- 
pect their pay. They generally manifested much sympathy for 
him, and expressed their confidence that he had done as well as he 
could in those troublous times, and in circumstances over which he 
had no control. They told him not to deprive himself and family 
of necessary comforts in order to pay them. Many that were ac- 
quainted with facts, spoke in admiration of his course. One gen- 
tleman in the city of high standing, who was a non-professor, said, 
" Elder Marks is the noblest work of God, for he is an honest man." 
These circumstances greatly soothed his spirit, and afforded him 
unspeakable consolation ; and he felt deeply grateful that confidence 
in his integrity was not lost. It was also with him a matter of 
great thanksgiving, that none of his creditors were much distressed 
by his failure. The following testimony to the uprightness of his 
conduct in these days of trial, was received from his assignees a few 
weeks after his death. 

« Rochester, Feb. 14, 1846. 

Mrs. Marks. Dear Madam, 

* * * ' * * We take this occasion to express 
our sympathy with you in the bereavement you have experienced 
in the loss of your excellent husband. And not only for your sake, 
but for society do we mourn in the loss of a good man and devout 
Christian. He was truly an upright man. We knew him under 
circumstances of temptation and trial, and found him a true man to 
the last penny. * * * Samuel D. Porter, 

David Hoyt." 

In these dark days, Mr. Marks often had his spirits cheered 
with consolatory letters from his Christian friends, similar to the 
following. 

" Greenville, R. I. Oct. 5, 1837. 

My Dear Brother Marks, 

* * * . * It is probably unnecessary for me to 
attempt to console you, as I doubt not that the consolations of the 
religion you have so long and so successfully preached to others are 
afforded you in this time of distress. My dear brother and sister 
are surely not among those with whom the consolations of God are 

32 



374 MEMOIRS OP 

small. Those sermons, exhortations, and prayers, that have so of- 
ten afforded comfort to hundreds of God's poor and afflicted people, 
owed much of their efficiency to the rich experience you have had 
of the abundant sources of comfort that the gospel opens to the dis- 
consolate. Philosophy, unaided by religion, coolly tells us to sub- 
mit to misfortunes because we cannot avoid them. The religion of 
Jesus Christ does not leave us to this cold comfort, if comfort it 
deserves to be called. No. It tells us a Father's hand is concern- 
ed in all our afflictions, that they shall work together for good to 
those that love God. My dear brother and sister have not lost 
their all, although misfortune has deprived them of choice earthly 
blessings. No. Their rich treasure in heaven, infinitely more 
valuable than all earthly possessions, remains secure and uninjured. 
O blessed thought, soon you will enjoy that treasure. * * * * 
Your sympathizing brother, Elias Hutchins." 

In* the fall of 1837, Mr. Marks made the following entries in his 
journal. 

" Saturday, October 28. This city during the present week 
has been the theatre of intense excitement, consequent upon one of 
the most deliberate, bold, and daring assassinations that has ever 
stained our land, the first murder ever known to have been com- 
mitted in the county of Monroe. Win. Lyman, a most estimable 
citizen and a devoted Christian, a husband and a father, was shot 
in our city last Monday night, a little past 9 o'clock, near his own 
door. I have been to see his bereaved widow. Poor woman ! the 
agony of her mind for a time almost made her frantic. The ex- 
amination of Octavius Baron, (a Frenchman and a Catholic, only 
eighteen years of age,) has occupied the whole of the week, and has 
resulted in his commitment to prison for trial. During the examina- 
tion he manifested the coldest indifference till toward the last, when 
lie betrayed some emotions. I accompanied him to his cell, which lie 
entered with seeming indifference. I inquired of him his feelings. 
He replied that he felt as though others equally guilty were about 
to escape. I exhorted him to speedy repentance and to seek the 
mercy of God, when his eyes became suffused with tears, and 
showed that he had at least one spark of feeling. But it is dread- 
ful to think of a youth only eighteen years of age so hardened in 
crime. 

Nov. 4. Thirty two years of my vain life are this day numbered. 
Nearly seventeen of these have been spent in the ministry. But, 
alas ! how unprofitable they have been ! O precious and compas- 
sionate Savior, forgive thy poor unworthy servant all the sins of his 
past life, the sin of impatience — the sin of vain thoughts — the sin 
of dogmatism, and do thou give him grace, and wisdom, and perse- 



DAVID MARKS. 375 

verance, which shall enable him to act in all things as the image, 
and likeness, and representative of the great, the everlasting God. 
do thou, blessed Redeemer, aid thy servant, that he may from 
this time discipline his own heart and conduct agreeably to the 
Holy Scriptures, and his future years be abundantly useful. 
Amen. 

Sabbath, Dec. 10, I preached three times, attended a prayer 
meeting, Bible class, and Sabbath school. Two were added to our 
number, one of whom I baptized. 

Dec. 29 — 31, I attended the Monroe quarterly meeting at Ken- 
dall, having walked twenty seven miles. It was a precious season. 
Eighteen kneeled for prayer, and one was hopefully converted. 
Brethren were very kind, and gave me several dollars ; and one 
brother carried me home. Much excitement has been prevailing 
in Rochester, as w T ell as in many other places, on account of an in- 
surrection in Canada. It is feared that a bloody civil war will be 
the result, and that the United States will be involved in it." 

May 27 — June 7, Mr. Marks spent mostly in attendance at the 
trial of Octavius Baron. The evidence against the prisoner was 
conclusive, the jury brought in the verdict of guilty, and he was 
sentenced to be hung the 25th of the ensuing July. Through the 
whole trial, he seemed the most indifferent of any present, and often, 
during the adjournments of the court, danced in his chains. The 
agony of his parents, sister, and the miserable victim of his licen- 
tiousness, whom he said he had married, seemed intense. At the 
time appointed, he suffered the execution of the sentence pro- 
nounced upon him, manifesting to the last the same hardness of 
heart. As he was about to be launched into eternity, he grasped 
a crucifix, which it was said he held till death had done its work. 

Mr. Marks closed his labors in Rochester in June, 1838. The 
following in relation to this circumstance, with some other incidents, 
is copied from his correspondence in the Morning Star. 

" Having been informed that my brethren in Ohio were expect- 
ing me to visit them, I would say to them, through the Star, that I 
have long desired to see them once more in the flesh, and that for 
months previous to my leaving Rochester, I had much conflict of 
mind in deciding whether it was my duty to continue my labors in 
the city or comply with their kind and often repeated requests. 
Severe and laborious had been my toils in Rochester, and the pain 
of soul it caused me to think of abandoning the fruits of those toils, 
was such as I had never before known, and I concluded it was my 
duty to remain as long as I could obtain the bare necessities of life. 
Since the organization of the church, between sixty and seventy 
had united with it, but in consequence of the pressure and the sus- 
pension of business following it, several had been obliged to leave 



376 MEMOIRS OF 

the city. My health had so declined the past winter, that consid- 
erable of the time I was unable to preach. For many months I 
had depended on my own efforts for my support, but this resource 
was now cut off. My companion engaged in teaching till her health 
was so poor, that in the spring she was obliged to relinquish it. 
The door seemed now effectually closed against continuing my stay 
in Rochester, and I now felt that if the church lost its visibility my 
garments were clear. Its members had known something of the 
trials of my situation, and had often extended to me the balm of 
their sympathy, the only relief they were able to afford. When I 
communicated to them my decision, they acquiesced with tearful 
eyes, saying, that in my present destitution, it would be cruelty to 
urge my longer stay ; but they knew not what to do. They had 
looked to other churches, and their home was nowhere else. They 
finally agreed to sustain the visibility of the church, and to support 
two prayer meetings weekly, in the hope that soon aid would be 
granted them from some quarter. 

In the month of May, I had a violent attack of jaundice, which 
some of the time confined me to my bed. My skin became about 
as dark as that of a mulatto, and my friends were apprehensive that 
my disease would terminate fatally. Its violent symptoms, howev- 
er, finally yielded to active medical treatment, so that on the 15th 
of June, we left Rochester, and went to Byron, where the Holland 
Purchase yearly meeting was in session. I then proposed going to 
Canada, and immediately after my return, to the state of Ohio. 
But my brethren so strenuously and earnestly protested against my 
intended course, and seemed so anxious for me to labor as an evan- 
gelist among the churches of western New York, that I partly 
consented to delay my visit to Ohio till another season. My health 
was such that I could preach little, and my labors could probably 
be of very little use any where. The nervous irritability of my 
system subjected me at intervals to much mental prostration, and 
occasionally to depression of spirits. 

From Byron we took the canal to Royalton on our way to Can- 
ada. Here again I was confined by sickness two weeks. A phy- 
sician, whom I consulted, reiterated the often repeated advice of 
former physicians, that if I ever intended to recover, I must lay 
aside all mental labor, such as reading, writing, preaching, &c, 
avoid all conversation that would require any effort of mind, and at 
the same time take as much bodily exercise as my strength would 
permit. As this course would for the present deprive me of all 
prospect of usefulness to the church, the thoughts of it were painful 
to my feelings, but being convinced that the continuance of my life 
depended upon it, I commenced faithfully following his directions. 
I grew better, but not daring to proceed on my journey, I conclu- 



DAVID MARKS. 377 

ded to spend a few days in Boston, Erie Co. Leaving Royalton 
for this purpose, on the 4th of July, I could not well resist the 
temptation to stop at the New York State Anti-Slavery conven- 
tion, w^hich was that day to commence its sitting in the Methodist 
chapel in Lockport. Here, a little more than two years ago, a pri- 
vate lecturer was mobbed for advocating the abolition of slavery. 
Now not even the faintest whisper, < I fear there will be a mob/ 
was heard. It was to me a gratifying circumstance that the con- 
vention was in a Methodist chapel, as the influence of so many in 
this denomination was on the side of the oppressor. O, thought 
I, could the illustrious Wesley arise from the dead, and speak to 
his American brethren, how would he show them their sins, while, 
as in the days of his flesh, he would thunder peal after peal on the 
conscience of the slaveholder, and cry aloud in his ears, ' Render 
unto all their dues. * * Escape for your life ! Regard not money ! 
Whataver you lose, lose not your soul ! Immediately quit this 
horrid trade ! Instantly deliver yourselves from blood-guiltiness ! 
Your hands, your bed, your furniture, your house, your lands are 
stained with blood. Surely it is enough. Accumulate no more 
guilt!' 

Some distinguished abolitionists w r ere present. One of the num- 
ber was Henry B. Stanton. He spoke on a resolution, saying that 
the declaration of independence breathes the very spirit and princi- 
ples of abolitionists. While commenting on the declaration, he came 
to the clause, ' But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pur- 
suing invariably the same object, evinces a design to reduce them 
to absolute despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off 
such government/ he said the resolution was not correct. That 
clause in the constitution allowed war. It was revolutionary. But 
it was the doctrine of the declaration, not of abolitionists. They 
were engaged in a moral conflict, a war of principles. No blood- 
stained banner waved over their heads. No widow's groans, no 
orphan's tears, no garments rolled in blood,, marked their path. In a 
manner entirely his own, he alluded to the persecuted abolitionists,, 
the mobs at Boston and New York, the burning of Liberty Tem- 
ple in Philadelphia, the grave and future glory of Lovejoy, and 
closed his remarks in a burst of powerful and impassioned elo- 
quence. The assembly seemed electrified. An amendment was 
immediately proposed, which passed unanimously, cutting off the 
approval of that part of the declaration, which declared it to be the 
right and duty of the oppressed, to throw off their yoke. 

Leaving Lockport, we went to Buffalo, and thence to Boston, 

where my good friend, Deacon Truman Carey, gave us a very 

hearty and affectionate welcome, and told us to make his house our 

home as long as we pleased. I remained here three weeks, follow- 

32* 



878 MEMOi&s op 

ing the prescriptions of the physician, excepting that I preached on 
the Sabbath, and wrote to some correspondents." 

The following is taken from a copy of one of the letters written 
during this period, to Mi\ Phillips, missionary in India, from whom 
intelligence had been received that his wife (formerly Mrs. Beede) 
had entered upon eternal scenes. 

"Boston, N. Y. July 19, 1838. 
My dear brother, 

* * * In April last, on taking a copy of the Star 
from the P. O. at Rochester, I read that for which I was not pre- 
pared — the death of dear sister Phillips ! For a while, I could not 
realize it, but as the truth of the painful intelligence rushed upon 
me, I was quite overcome, and could not refrain from weeping 
aloud. When I met my dear companion, I was reminded of your 
bereavement and solitary situation in a land of heathen strangers ? 
while I was blessed with the wife of my youth in a land of friends* 
Then we fell on each other's necks, and sobbed for a long time. 
Our sorrow was not altogether for dear Mary, who, we doubted 
not, was enjoying sweet rest beyond the toils, and pains, and sor- 
rows of life, but for our dear brother Phillips. "We supposed that 
the heart-rending tidings of the death, of both your parents had al- 
ready reached you, and even then was weighing down your spirits. 
Since very remarkable bereavements had already become your lot, 
we were not looking for one still more heavy and cutting than all 
the rest. My dear companion, who you know was much attached 
to your Mary, read the short painful notice in the Star. Like the 
friends of Job, we sat a long time in silence, then we kneeled and 
poured out our supplications to high Heaven in your behalf. We 
were cheered, however, by the reflection that you mourn not as 
those who mourn without hope, and that religion can assuage the 
sorrows of the soul. Yes, my dear brother, a firm trust in the 
Lord can fortify us against those bereavements which are more 
painful than even death itself. The reflection that the time we 
have on earth is very short, and that the tender ties which bind us 
to our families and friends, were only formed to be dissolved at the 
touch of death, should reconcile us to look upon our friends as but 
lent favors, not to be retained always, but only during the pleasure 
of the loaner. Hence we should look at death until we become ac- 
quainted with its worst features, comprehend its power, and are 
prepared to resign ourselves, or our dearest friends, to its iron 
grasp. 

It was once my lot to comfort and beguile your Mary of her 
tears, when her dear Beede was laid in the grave, and I had hoped 
while she was in India that I should have the privilege of attempt- 






DAVID MARKS. S?9 

ing to comfort her in her labors. I recount the time since we 
parted, and am astonished at the swiftness with which more than 
three years have passed away. I cannot refrain from tears, when 
I think how little time I have had to hold communion with you 
across the great watery waste that separates us. But, however 
neglectful of my duty you may judge me to have been, I acknowl- 
edge with gratitude that you, and indeed all my missionary friends, 
have been faithful and kind to me in this respect, for myself and 
wife have received, in all, ten letters from India. We have felt a 
deeper interest in these communications than in any others we ever 
received, and after forwarding interesting extracts for publication 
in the Morning Star, we have filed them among our choicest papers* 
One of the subjects on which you dwelt in your first letter is the 
wretched and heart-sickening appearance of the heathen of Hin- 
doostan. Doubtless the first sight of them made an impression on 
your mind, of which we can form a very faint idea. But though 
we have not seen what you have, yet from the Scriptures we have 
a frightful picture of the sad and wretched condition of those who 
4 hasten after other gods/ For years, I have been fully convinced, 
that neither science nor civilization, equal rights or much temporal 
happiness, can be secured to men without the aid of religion — the 
pure religion of the blessed Bible. And it is equally certain, that 
the blessed God has not proposed to send men the gospel by any 
miraculous power ; but through the instrumentality of the churchy 
and by their using the ordinary means which God has put into 
their hands. Hence, our dear Savior forbade that state of mind 
which is always prompting us to seek a sign from heaven, when in 
fact the word of God is nigh us, and is sufficiently plain and con- 
clusive to ensure our faith, if we will take the trouble to search 
faithfully for truth. I have seen the time when I anxiously sought 
for signs and wonders. I thank God that I have been perfectly 
cured of such desires, by the consideration that He who made man 
and perfectly understood his nature, and what will influence him 
best, has granted miracles very sparingly, and only on the most 
important occasions, such as establishing the divinity of certain dis- 
pensations, &c. Doubtless the reason is, that miracles, repeated 
frequently, would become so common as to lose their influence. 
Hence, God has not made it the order of his government to depart 
from the laws of nature, to advance his cause for the time being, at 
the expense of future generations. Although his mode of govern- 
ment imposes upon all men, and especially upon Christians and 
ministers, much study and labor in making examination of the 
records and evidences of divine truth, yet it exhibits an amount of 
wisdom sufficient to astonish even the angels of heaven. * * * 
Your affectionate brother in Christ, D. Marks." 



880 MEMOIRS OF 



CHAPTER XXVII. 

Particulars of Mr. Marks' Travels and Labors, mostly in New 
York, from July, 1838, to April, 1840. 

The following is copied from Mr. Marks' correspondence in the 
Morning Star: 

" About the last of July, my health having considerably improv- 
ed, we resumed our journey to Canada, crossed the Niagara at 
Black Rock, and as we proceeded down the river, passed several 
houses that had been perforated with balls during the late insurrec- 
tion. At the Falls, we found an encampment of eight hundred 
soldiers, who were marched from New Brunswick during the last 
winter, to aid in quelling the rebellion. We were permitted to vis- 
it any part of the army's camp. Their tents were large and neat, 
and the officers and soldiers were very civil. They told us heart- 
rending stories of their privations and sufferings in marching, dur- 
ing the severity of last winter, through the deep unbroken snows of 
the wilderness, where they came near perishing. Alas ! the mis- 
eries of war are indeed untold ! We pursued our way to Zorra, 
found the country in a quiet state, and were treated with much 
hospitality and kindness. In August, I visited the churches in the 
London quarterly meeting, and found their state to be just what 
might be expected, after so much of the blighting spirit of war had 
swept over the land. Several of the brethren had removed to the 
United States, and others were preparing to follow. A council had 
been appointed to meet in Southwold, the second of July, to ordain 
two brethren to the work of the ministry ; but on the first day of 
the month, the whole province was thrown into commotion, by a 
rumor that many thousands of the inhabitants were secretly organ- 
ized with abundance of arms and ammunition, and would be joined 
by men from the United States to take the province on the fourth 
of the month. This occasioned the calling out of the militia, the 
fencing up of roads and bridges, and the stopping of travellers, so 
that the council did not assemble. I was now requested to meet 
with them. I did so, and we had a very interesting season. Both 
of the brethren that were ordained, appeared to be ministers of 
promise. In September, we returned to Boston, N. Y., where we 
arrived after an absence of six weeks, thankful to our Heavenly 
Father for our preservation, and for the rich blessing of improved 
health." 

Mr. Marks, with much joy, now resumed his labors as an evan- 
gelist in the Holland Purchase yearly meeting. He had also con- 
sented to take an assistant general agency for the Book Concern, 



I>AVID MARKS. 381 

among the western churches. Sept. 22 and 23, he attended the 
Chatauque quarterly meeting in Arkwright. Several were awaken- 
ed, and one professed to be converted. During the remainder of 
the month, he preached in Cherry Creek, Ellington, Collins, and 
Springville. In the early part of October, he labored several 
days in China, generally preaching twice daily, besides holding 
prayer and inquiry meetings, and spending two or three hours in 
active manual labor. The blessing of God attended the preaching 
of his truth, the church w T as revived, many of the impenitent were 
awakened, and about twenty professed to turn to the Lord, most 
of whom were baptized. Some of these meetings were awfully 
solemn. In one of them, a Congregationalist minister related a 
thrilling account of the death of one of his classmates in Lane Sem- 
inary, Cincinnati, aged about seventeen years. This relation great- 
ly affected Mr. Marks, especially as he knew and highly esteemed 
several relatives of the deceased. At the close of the meeting, he 
requested the minister to give hiin the statements he had made, in 
writing. He did so. The account, with the addition of some facts 
subsequently gathered, was substantially as follows : 

" This youth resided in Rochester during the great revival in 
that city under the labors of Mr. C. G. Finney, and at that time 
was the subject of deep convictions. He visited Mr. Finney, ac- 
knowledged himself a sinner, but on being asked, if he would re- 
pent then, he said he would not. Mr. Finney said to him in much 
faithfulness, ' Young man, you will come to some dreadful end.' 
He replied, ' I am not afraid of it.' He resisted his convictions, 
and finally resorted to the objections usually urged by open infidels. 
His manners were gentle, his moral character unexceptionable, and 
his mind was of the very highest order. But he loved to use his 
objections against Christianity, in which he manifested uncommon 
skill. He was sent to Lane Seminary, that he might prosecute 
his studies under a holy influence. One day, after the cholera com- 
menced its ravages in Cincinnati, he was in a shop where the work- 
men were making coffins. He asked, what should the shortness and 
uncertainty of life teach us ? One answered, i While we have life, to 
prepare for death.' 6 No/ he replied, i it teaches us to enjoy life 
while we have it.' The next day he was attacked by the pesti- 
lence, but remedies were applied so promptly that he was restored 
to comfort, with a good prospect of a speedy and perfect recovery. 
In this state, he was sitting in my room, when some rice was 
brought him, of which he ate too much, and suffered a relapse. 
The first indication of relapse was sudden. He exclaimed, ' I can 
see nothing.' I looked upon him, his eyes were open and rolling 
—his cheeks were blanched — his lips purple. I took him and bore 
him to his bed. From the first, those of us who had experience in 



882 MEMOIRS OF 

the disease, had no hope that he could be raised again. An effort 
was made to direct him to the Savior, without distracting him by 
informing him of his desperate bodily circumstances. Said a friend, 
[Theodore Weld,] as he handed him a glass of water, ' Jesus 
Christ offers you the water of eternal life, ten thousand times more 
freely than I offer you this water/ But his stout heart rose up 
against the kind attempt. ' Let me alone,' said he, ' not a word of 
that. Let me try my experiment. Infidelity is true after all.' It 
is probable that at this time he was deceived with the hope of re- 
covery. Though he repelled all Christian conversation, if the 
friend attempted to withdraw, he would say, ' Come back. Come 
back.' It was manifest that a dreadful struggle was agitating his 
bosom, between the pride of commitment on one hand, and the fear 
of hell on the other. 

While lying in this condition, one of the theological students 
came in, to whom he turned, and calling him by name, said : ' You 
have never given me the evidence that there is an eternal 
hell.' He repliedj ' There is no time and no need that I should 
do so now, for I perceive that you believe that truth.' He accus- 
ed him of not having been faithful to him in religious matters. He 
told him he had been faithful, but said he, ' You would not hear.' 
At length the physician having taxed all his skill, approached the 
bed, saying to the attendant, ' This is the last portion I shall give 
him. If this fails, all hope is gone !' It did fail, and then one of the 
students addressed him thus : ' We have now done what we can to 
save your life. All hope is now past. You must die. Prepare to 
meet God. You will probably be in eternity in half an hour.' 
At this announcement he became outrageous and blasphemed. 
' Oh !' said he, ' I wont die. Have I come here to Ohio to die !' 
And then, his shrieks and blasphemies were horrible. He grasp- 
ed the bed clothes as if to hold back from death, and in this condi- 
tion, about nine hours from the time of his relapse, without a parti- 
cle of light or hope, his soul was taken away. 

May the living be warned. May those that are tampering with 

infidelity here see its end. Affectionately yours, 

» 

October 20 — 22. Mr. Marks attended the Genesee quarterly 
meeting, and presented the following resolution on religion and 
politics, which passed : ' Resolved, that Christianity claims a di- 
rect and minute control over all the conduct of its disciples ; there- 
fore, in our opinion, professed Christians cannot, in any case, vote to 
put an unjust or wicked man into office, without transgressing the law 
of God, which saith, He that ruleth over men must be just, rul- 
ing in the fear of the Lord." He remained in Warsaw nine days, 
attending meetings daily, and laboring in connection with the pas- 



DAVID MARKS. 383 

tor of the church. Several were awakened, fifteen of whom pro- 
fessed to find the Savior. Ten of these were members of the Sab- 
bath school. 

In the early part of November, Mr. Marks preached several 
days in Pike, in a neighborhood called " Campbell hill." The 
church in this place was without a pastor, few in number, not ex- 
ceeding twelve or fifteen who resided near enough together to be 
able to meet in weekly meetings. Their place of worship was a 
small school house, and as few could be accommodated, the congre- 
gation was of necessity small. Still about twenty professed to be 
converted, seventeen of whom united with the church. These con- 
verts appeared unusually strong and stable. During the progress 
of the work, one brother, who was a very faithful Christian, saw 
seven of his family bow to Christ, and follow their Savior in the 
ordinance of baptism. November 10 and 11, Mr. Marks attended 
the Erie quarterly meeting in Collins, and during the latter part of 
the month, preached a few times in Hume. In December he held 
a few meetings in Springville. Several appeared anxious for sal- 
vation and some were converted. But sectarian spirit blighted in 
the bud, the prospect of a powerful revival. He next held a three 
days' meeting in Nashville with a Calvinistic Baptist church. There 
had been no revival here for years. Great attention was given to 
the word, and several professed submission to Christ, Dec. 22. 
He attended the Chatauque quarterly meeting in Yillanovia, where 
a precious season was enjoyed. 

In January, 1839, he held a protracted meeting in Boston, Erie 
Co. This had long been a strong hold of Universalism. Sever- 
al aged persons had recently died, not one of whom left an evi- 
dence of a well grounded hope. The church was in a low state 
and seemed to have little faith that God would revive his work. 
After a few sermons, however, great seriousness rested upon the 
assemblies, and the impenitent began to inquire what they should 
do to be saved. The altar for prayer was soon crowded, and one 
and another found peace in believing, till about thirty profess- 
ed to be born again. Among the converts were several children 
under twelve years of age, whose zeal and activity in laboring for 
the conversion of their associates, was a loud rebuke to many pro- 
fessors. One of these children expressed great anxiety for the con- 
version of a younger brother. He begged of him to repent of his 
sins, and give his heart to God ; and when his brother yielded and 
was converted, he was so affected that he clapped his hands, and 
exclaimed, " Glory to God." On another occasion, one of his 
cousins, a little boy seven years of age, was brought by his pray- 
ers and conversation to feel that he was very wicked and ought to 
repent. The little boy, like the grey headed sinner, wanted to put 



S84 MEMOIRS OF 

it off a little longer, or, in other words, till lie became older. But 
the faithful little convert begged that he would not do so, and urg- 
ed as a very reasonable and powerful motive, " You don't know 
that you will live till another morning." These children, to the 
number of eight or ten, were very faithful in their duties as church 
members, and exemplary in their conduct, and when a year after- 
wards Mr. Marks visited them, not one of them had backslidden, 
and they were reckoned among the most faithful, devoted Chris- 
tians in the church. 

In the month of February, Mr. Marks preached a few times in 
Hamburg, and saw some turn to God. He also attended the Cat- 
araugus quarterly meeting in China, the Erie quarterly meeting in 
Ashford, and the Chatauque in Portland. In these meetings, he 
labored to enlist the brethren and ministry to act more efficiently 
in the various benevolent enterprises, and consecrate themselves 
with renewed zeal to the work of saving souls. He remained in 
Portland a few days, and saw some prospect of a revival, but sec- 
tarian and pro-slavery feelings seemed to throw powerful obstacles 
in the way of a general work. 

In the early part of March, he went to Rochester, and having 
carefully guarded the contributions he had received in the places 
where he had labored, and also what he had earned in his agency, 
and in the sale of religious books, he had saved something of a 
sum. Fifty dollars of this sum he appropriated to the use of his 
father, and the remainder, with much satisfaction, he now paid to 
his creditors, carefully making a dividend exactly proportioned to 
their dues. He next attended the Penfield quarterly meeting, and 
on returning to Rochester, found his companion, whom he had left 
there, very ill. Her health, which had been declining for some 
years, had now entirely failed, and most of the time, for nearly the 
ensuing three months, he watched by her bedside, while the lamp 
of life seemed just flickering in its socket. Nothing could exceed 
his kind care and affectionate attentions during this period, while, to 
a great extent, he performed both the duties of nurse and watcher. 
The anguish of his mind during this season of affliction was often 
very great. April 11, he wrote thus to Mr. Burr: 

" Though I have not been a stranger to affliction, a trial has 
come upon me, compared with which other trials seem as nothing. 
I have reason to fear that God is about to take from me my dear 
companion. She whose labors to aid me in the ministry for more 
than nine years have been well known to you and thousands in 
our denomination is very sick. She has been confined about one 
month with nervous debility, and is now so low that there is not 
sufficient life for a fever to prey upon. She has every attention 
that medical skill and the kindness of warm friends can secure." 



DAVID MARKS. 385 

Mrs. Marks at length began to amend, but so slowly as to be 
scarcely perceptible, and it was about twenty weeks from her first 
attack, before it was deemed prudent for her to leave the city. 
The liberality of Christian friends in these days of affliction, great- 
ly affected as well as comforted the heart of her husband. Miss 
Emily E. F. Winsor of Greenville, R. I., (a grand daughter of 
Judge Foster, who was converted under Mr. Marks' labors in 1830,) 
sent or caused to be sent him fifty dollars. The conductors of the 
Book Concern also sent him fifty dollars, and other Christian 
friends ninety-five. These sums met Mrs. Marks' sickness bills 
within five dollars. 

During Mr. Marks' detention in Rochester, a very interesting 
revival of religion w r as progressing under the labors of Mr. Knapp, 
the celebrated Baptist evangelist. He attended several of the 
meetings, was much interested in the preacher's bold and lucid 
manner of presenting truth, and took notes of about thirty of his 
sermons, which he preserved as a choice treasure. It was believed 
that in this work four or five hundred were converted to God. 
Among them were persons of every age and class, from the wealthy 
and intelligent gentleman, down to the most confirmed drunkard and 
devotee of licentiousness. Most of the pupils of the dancing and 
waltzing schools in the city were among the converts. One infidel, 
on being converted, came forward and publicly gave up " Paine's 
Age of Reason," and confessed that, in his enmity to God, he had 
burned the Bible, and had attended public worship but once in 
twenty-seven years ! 

May 18, Mr. Marks attended the Genesee quarterly meeting in 
Batavia, where he received much sympathy and kindness from his 
Christian friends. They presented him with a horse and carriage. 
The latter he continued to use wdiile he lived. Since the assign- 
ment of his property, he had been obliged either to walk to his ap- 
pointments or hire a conveyance, or depend on brethren to send 
for him. About this period, he made an estimate from his daily 
accounts of receipts and expenses, and found that in the nineteen 
years that he had been preaching, he had expended $9000, only 
$3000 of which had been given him. This estimate included the 
sums he had given for charitable and religious purposes, but did 
not include his recent losses. 

About the middle of June, he attended the Holland Purchase 
yearly meeting at Varysburgh, where a solemn, impressive season 
was enjoyed. He was appointed a delegate to the General Con- 
ference, which was to meet the ensuing fall at Conneaut, Ohio. 
The subject of the remaining debts for which he was responsible, 
and which he was struggling to liquidate, was taken up, and it was 
thought that, as they were contracted in peculiar circumstances, 
33 



386 MEMOIRS OF 

and in most trying times, while he was laboring for the yearly 
meeting Home Mission Society, the brethren of the yearly meet- 
ing ought to aid him in liquidating them. For this purpose, it was 
agreed that a subscription should be raised, and contributions should 
be taken among the churches. As he had concluded to labor for a 
time in the yearly meeting, he was appointed one of the agents in 
this business. 

During the month of July and the early part of August, when- 
ever he could be persuaded to leave his companion, he visited and 
preached with the churches, returning frequently to Rochester. 
August 14 and 15, he attended a semi-annual meeting of the New 
York State Temperance Society in Rochester. Two hundred and 
twenty delegates were present, comprising many distinguished gen- 
tlemen. Among the number was Mr. E. C. Delevan, recently re- 
turned from Europe. Many high spirited resolutions were passed, 
which elicited very able and animated discussions. These discus- 
sions Mr. Marks briefly reported for the Morning Star. Mr. Dele- 
van described an interview of two hours he had with Louis Phil- 
lippe, the present king of France, which he spent in discussing the 
subject of temperance. The king coincided with him in principle, 
said, as for himself, he was ready to sign the pledge of total absti- 
nence, but, continued he, " The people would call me a fool." Of 
the 34,000,000 of people in France, it was estimated that not less 
than 14,000,000 were concerned in the traffic of wine ! Within 
the walls of Paris, the amount of strong drink used annually, is 
equivalent to one hundred and thirty bottles of wine, and five bot- 
tles of alcohol (holding nearly a quart each) for every man, woman 
and child!! 

The remaining part of August and September, Mr. Marks preach- 
ed almost daily among the churches in Yates, Monroe, and Genesee 
-quarterly meetings, with much acceptance. September 28 and 29, 
he attended the Monroe quarterly meeting at Ridgeway, where he 
met several delegates from New England, who were on their way 
to the General Conference, about to meet in Ohio. After the close 
of the meeting, he left with the eastern brethren, and arrived at 
Conneaut, Tuesday, Oct. 1, 1839. 

The Conference opened its session October 2, and continued five 
days. Mr. Marks, in addition to his duties as a member, reported 
the proceedings. The most animated and interesting discussion 
during this session was on the subject of slavery. Dr. Housley, 
a licensed Calvinistic Baptist minister from Kentucky, differing 
from his brethren in doctrine, and agreeing with the Free-will 
Baptists, had come to the General Conference, bringing letters of 
commendation. He wished to unite with the Free-will Baptists, 
and be ordained before he returned. He stated that there were 



DAVID MARKS. 387 

several thousand Baptists in Kentucky and adjacent states, who 
were with him in sentiment, and if he was received, would eventu- 
ally unite with the Free-will Baptists. A committee was appoint- 
ed for his examination. They asked him what he thought of 
American slavery. He replied, that it was a great moral evil, a 
scourge, and a curse. They inquired if he was a slaveholder. He 
said he was ; he owned a mother and three children. Being ask- 
ed, if he thought it morally and religiously right to hold slaves, he 
replied, " Circumstances alter cases. If I believed my slaves 
would be improved in their condition by immediate emancipation, 
I should be as glad to have them emancipated as you would ; but 
they are ignorant and unprepared at present to take care of them- 
selves." The council said to him, " We will give you satisfactory 
bonds that we will give each of your slaves three years' good school- 
ing in New England, support them during that time, and give oth- 
er necessary instructions to qualify them for usefulness in life. We 
will also go to Kentucky, and take them free of expense to you. 
Will you let us have them on these conditions ?" He replied, " No, 
unless I can have a remuneration." They asked, " What value do 
you put upon your slaves ?" " They are worth about two thousand 
dollars." The council further inquired, "If we will produce bonds 
as before proposed, and pay you two thousand or two thousand five 
hundred dollars, will you give up your slaves ?" " Yes," was the 
reply. "If you should see your slaves passing here toward Can- 
ada, what would be your course ?" " I should arrest, and claim 
them as my property." 

One of the resolutions on slavery, discussed by the Conference, 
expressed the sentiment, that " The slaveholder or the advocate of 
slavery, who refuses to examine the subject, or having examined 
it, after due admonition, continues to advocate the system, ought 
not to be fellowshipped as a Christian." After many excellent and 
animated speeches from several members of the Conference, one 
brother said, " I cannot go for the resolution. I think it uncalled 
for, particularly at this time. Here is a brother [Dr. Housley] 
who has come between nine and eleven hundred miles as the rep- 
resentative of some thousands of Christians at the south, who wish 
to become acquainted with our denomination, and will probably 
unite with us. He is a gentleman of science and respectable stand- 
ing. The course the Conference is taking is likely to close up the 
door of the union of those brethren with us. True, he owns a 
small number of slaves, but we must remember that the circumstan- 
ces of his education have been quite different from ours. I under- 
stand that, on the morning previous to his leaving home, he called 
his three little boys, who were slaves, with his own children around 
the family altar. He holds these slaves on an equality with his 



388 MEMOIRS OF 

children. He has tried for years to induce the legislature of life 
state to grant liberty to instruct the slaves. But the moment you 
pass this resolution he is down, and the hopes of the Christians 
with whom he is connected, are instantly blasted. They have been 
struggling long and hard against the doctrine of the necessity of 
the human will and close communion, and they rejoiced exceeding- 
ly to learn, that at the north there were Christians of the same 
sentiments."* 

Mr. Marks replied, " I am perfectly astonished. I am almost 

confounded with surprise, that my dear brother should wish, 

while we are clear from the contaminating guilt of slavery, that we 
should sell our freedom and purity at the beck of one man with but 
four slaves !f Is it possible that to gain a few thousands to our 

number, brother is willing that we should change our ground, 

and welcome slaveholding into the church ? If Dr. Housley wish- 
es to come into our denomination, let him free his slaves, and then 
we can receive him cheerfully, and bid him a hearty welcome to 

our communion. But can it be possible that brother wishes 

it published through the world, and in the sight of high heaven, 
that the Free-will Baptists were full-blooded, thorough-going abo- 
litionists, until a slaveholder came from the south, and sought ad- 
mission to their communion, and the denomination, for the sake of 
one man, instead of requiring him to free his slaves before he could 
be received, gave their abolition to the winds, and bowed before 
the dreadful Moloch of slavery ? O, be astonished, ye heavens ! 
Tell it not in Gath." 

The resolution passed unanimously, with one exception. 

Dr. Housley having been invited to speak, subsequently address- 
ed the Conference as follows : " I wish merely to tell the Confer- 
ence the object of my visit. I have been a member of the United 
Separate Baptist church in Kentucky. Fifteen months since, I 
had a call to preach in one of the churches. I accepted it, and 
preached according to my sentiments — a universal atonement, and 
free communion. As the result, I could not receive ordination 
from persons of opposite sentiments, and there was a prospect of a 
division. I finally announced that I would withdraw and unite 
with the Free-will Baptists, requesting them to deviate from their 
usual course, and give me a certificate of my standing. They as- 
sented. I have since itinerated among the churches of Kentucky, 
and have found that large numbers of them are ready to split on 
the points about which we differ. Many churches are made up of 

* The brother who made these remarks, is now a zealous, active abolitionist, and 
keeps one of the " under ground rail-road houses." 

t The Free-will Baptists had previously dis-fellowshipped their churches in North 
Carolina on account of their persisting in their connexion with slavery. 



DAVID MARKS. 389 

Free-will Baptists in sentiment. About thirty years ago there 
was a separation of many churches, who took the ground of free 
salvation and free communion. These were called Separate Bap- 
tists. After this, there was a convention, and negotiations were 
opened for their being united again with the Calvinistic body ; and 
the two parties did unite in form, but not in sentiment. There are 
now divisions constantly taking place. On one side they are call- 
ed Parkerites, Fatalists, Calvinists, and, on the other side, they are 
called Arminians and Missionaries. [The latter name is given 
them because they are friends to missions.] Should you plant a 
mission in Kentucky, probably you might gather in that state 
twenty thousand members into your denomination within three 
years. In talking these things over, it was agreed that I should 
come and see you, and lay the circumstances before this body. I 
have united with the Free-will Baptist church in this town. [It 
is but justice to the church to say they did not know that Dr. 
Housley was a slaveholder when they received him.] In the ex- 
pectation that I should here receive ordination, I have an appoint- 
ment to attend baptism on my return home." 

The inquiry was made : Can a Free-will Baptist preach among 
those churches with safety ? Dr. Housley replied, " He can — 
provided he do not make the exciting subject of abolition the test 
of fellowship." 

The council appointed for Dr. Housley's examination, reported to 
him, that while he claimed property in his fellow man, they could 
not acknowledge him as a minister of Jesus Christ. 

The report of the committee on the Book Concern gave ample 
proof of the ability and wisdom of its conductors, and, as a matter 
of course, was a subject of the deepest interest to Mr. Marks. It 
contained the following very excellent remarks : " If we look at it 
[Book Concern,] as it is now exhibited to us, it presents to our 
view a large pecuniary interest, as the property of the denomina- 
tion, for which, as a body, they never have advanced a farthing. 
"With its weekly circulation of five thousand copies of the Morning 
Star, and its many thousand copies of useful books, we may con- 
template it as now exerting, under the Divine blessing, an exten- 
sive, benign, and heavenly influence over thousands of eternity- 
bound souls, preparing them for greater usefulness in this world,, 
and for holiness and endless joy in that which is to come. If we 
look at it as it has appeared in the past, we behold it weak and 
feeble, without funds, loaded with debts of thousands of dollars, de- 
claring uncompromising war with the whole empire of darkness, 
constantly beset among other enemies, with poverty, prejudice, ig- 
norance, intemperance, Romanism, and even measuring swords 
with the giant monster slavery — and yet, under all these unfavora- 
33* 



390 MEMOIKS OF 

ble circumstances, we see it gradually rising, freeing itself from pe- 
cuniary embarrassment, increasing in strength, gaining the confi- 
dence of the public, and enlarging the sphere of its usefulness, un- 
til it arrives as its present useful and prosperous state. We do 
feel that every heart ought humbly and devoutly to say, < Hitherto 
the Lord hath helped us.' The Morning Star is known through 
our nation, and even in Europe and India, as the decided and fear- 
less opposer of the sins of the age. If this characteristic of our 
paper be destroyed, the world will suffer an irreparable loss. To 
the care of our beloved denomination, God has committed the 
Morning Star, bidding us ta occupy till he comes, and on us its fu- 
ture character and usefulness depends. * * * . May the Morn- 
ing Star never cease to emit the sacred rays of gospel light and 
saving truth, until the glory of God shall cover the whole earth." 

Among the resolutions that were passed on the subject of tem- 
perance, was the following : " Whereas tobacco is one of the most 
deadly poisons in the vegetable kingdom, and its use injurious to 
the health and happiness of mankind, Therefore, Resolved, that the 
habitual use of tobacco is in direct opposition to the true principles 
of temperance — that it becomes us as a denomination to labor for 
the removal of this evil from among us, and especially from the 
ministry — and that we earnestly entreat our brethren who have 
been engaged in the filthy practice of using this obnoxious weed, to 
abstain therefrom." 

Monday morning the Conference closed. The parting was a 
very melting one. The delegates, in the prosecution of their busi- 
ness, had been of one heart and one soul, and several had repeat- 
ed, " How good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell togeth- 
er in unity." They pledged themselves to remember each other 
in their addresses at the throne of grace, also the various operations 
in which, as a denomination, they were engaged for the good of 
souls. They sung a parting hymn while the members of the Con- 
ference took leave of each other by shaking hands. The scene 
was very affecting. All were bathed in tears, and the feelings of 
some burst forth in sobs. Even Dr. Housley wept. 

After the close of the Conference, Mr. Marks spent a few weeks 
in accordance with previous engagements with the churches in the 
north-eastern part of Ohio, the north-western part of Pennsylvania, 
and south-western part of New York. All the record that has 
been found of his labors among these churches, is contained in 
the following brief, occasional notices in his letters to his companion. 

Ashtabula, Ohio, Oct. 21, 1839. 
My dearly beloved wife : — 

* The evening I parted with you, Oct. 8, we had 

a very interesting anti-slavery meeting in Conneaut, and thirty-two 



DAVID MAEKS. 391 

gave their names to form a society. Oct. 9 and 10, I travelled fif- 
ty-eight miles, seven of which I walked, preached four times, and 
had one unusually good season. Sabbath, Oct. 13,1 preached three 
times at Washington village, in Erie county, Pa. The congrega- 
tions were large, and the Lord was with me. I have preached 
with several churches in the Erie and Ashtabula quarterly meet- 
ings. The seasons of worship have generally been very interest- 
ing, and the assemblies large. I attended the Ashtabula quarterly 
meeting at "Williamsfield, and had one of the best seasons in preach- 
ing that I ever had. About thirty arose for prayer, and some con- 
fessed their sins. In Cherry Valley, a church has recently been 
formed under the labors of Elder Ransom Dunn. One hundred 
were converted in ten days, eighty of whom he baptized. The 
church is building a house of worship. 

My health is unusually good. I fill my appointments with per- 
fect ease, preach usually twice a day, from an hour to an hour and 
a half, and feel no inconvenience. You have frequently entreated 
me not to be anxious about you, but how can I help it ? Can you 
so control your mind and feelings as not to be anxious about me ? 
If you can, it is because you have more grace. Christ said, " Be 
not anxious for your life," and if it is possible not to be anxious 
even for life, I suppose we may so discipline our thoughts as not to 
be anxious for each other ; but I scarcely know how to bring my 
mind to such a state. The recollection of your feeble health, and 
the fear that you will have a relapse, are thoughts almost constant- 
ly before my eyes. O that I could be with you to show you a mul- 
titude of those little kindnesses which you so much need in your 
feebleness. I will try, however, to be patient, and comfort myself 
with the reflection, that you are in the hands of a kind Savior, who 
has shown me many mercies, and whose kindness, though unmerit- 
ed, will not forsake me. Since we parted I have enjoyed consid- 
erable of the Divine presence. I hope you also have had the pres- 
ence of Christ to comfort you in your privations and afflictions* 
O how good has my Heavenly Father been to me. What kind- 
ness in permitting me to be with my dear companion so much, and 
above all in granting me the privilege, when she was sick, of min- 
istering to her comfort. Certainly we have no reason to complain ; 
thousands of persons are induced by the hope of mere sordid gain 
to part for months and years. Some have to leave their wives 
with several children, and they have to endure severe poverty, 
with none to pity them, but many to oppress and misuse them. 
But what a multitude of kind friends we have. O we will labor 
to be thankful and contented. We know we can stay here on 
earth but a little while, and then our final change will come. We 
have now arrived to a period of life, in which the flight of time 



392 MEMOIRS OF 

will be very rapid, and much as we love one another, we must cer- 
tainly part soon. O may we be prepared. We will thank God 
for what time we are allowed to spend together here, and for the 
blessed hope, that soon after the last parting on earth, we shall meet 
where we shall " know as we are known," and our union be com- 
plete, perfect, and eternal. 

Your fortunate husband, 

David Marks. 

He wrote Nov. 2, " One of the most interesting meetings 
which I have had since I saw you was at the village of Gerard. 
The power of God was wonderfully manifested. A large assem- 
bly, with one exception, bent the knee. I had good seasons among 
the churches in the French Creek quarterly meeting. In North- 
east I was attacked by a pro-slavery advocate. The weather has 
been very fine indeed — the best I ever saw it during an autumn. 
The thermometer has been usually from 60 to 70 degrees and the 
roads have been as dry and dusty as in June." 

From Nov. 2 to Nov. 24, Mr. Marks visited twenty-one church- 
es in the Chatauque, Erie, Cattaraugus, and Genesee quarterly 
meetings, preaching from one to three times daily. 

He wrote, "I preached three times in Portland Sabbath, Nov. 3, 
with tolerable freedom, and during the week, I preached in Ark- 
wright, Villanovia, Charlotte, twice in Cherry Creek, and Nov. 9 
and 10, attended the Chatauque quarterly meeting in Dayton. The 
latter was a powerful season. Several confessed their sins. Some, 
I think, will be converted. During the six days following, I 
preached in Ellington, Napoli, twice in Little Valley, Mansfield, 
West Otto and East Otto. Yesterday I had three sweet meetings. 
In the evening, my text was Luke 1 6:5. " And how much owest thou 
my lord?" I think deep and lasting impressions were made. 
Several confessed their sins, and one that came forward for pray- 
er, prayed aloud. * * My health has not been so good 
in eight years. I have not even a cold or cough, which is so com- 
mon for me at this season of the year. Indeed I seem nearly well, 
thanks be to God. In compliance with your request, and for your 
sake, I am more careful than I need be, merely because were you 
with me, you would insist on certain points of caution and self- 
preserving care. 

Concord, Nov. 19, 7 o'clock, A. M. I arose this morning at three 
o'clock, and have written a large sheet of editorial reports of the 
General Conference. To-day, I have to write a letter to India, 
then go to Boston, thence to Richardson's settlement in Concord 
and preach to-night." 



DAVID MARKS. 393 

During the month of December, Mr. Marks preached daily, 
with good success, among the churches of the Genesee and Cat- 
taraugus quarterly meetings. In the early part of January, 1840, 
he left his companion with friends in Bath, Steuben county, and at- 
tended several appointments extending into Pennsylvania. He 
wrote : 

Addison Village, Jan. 17, 1840. 
My dear wife : — 

This morning is at least ten degrees colder than any I ever saw 
to my knowledge. I am now sitting by the side of a great fire, 
but the ink freezes in my pen before I can write out a pen full. 
The mercury has retired from sight in every thermometer in the 
village, though one of them shows thirty degrees below zero. 

Since I left you, I have preached from one to three times a day, 
and during the first six days, beside my other labors, I wrote and 
mailed thirty-two letters. The snow has been very deep, and the 
roads little broken, consequently the travelling has been tedious. 
I visited two churches in Pennsylvania ; one in Westfield, the oth- 
er in Deerfield. The former church is small and poor, and the 
country sterile indeed. The one in Deerfield is the only church 
in the village. My meetings, on the whole, have been interesting, 
but not attended with so much power as I have earnestly desired. 
This has made me feel gloomy." Three days afterwards, he 
wrote: — "Last Sabbath, I preached three times and had excellent 
seasons. I was very happy. My soul was deeply imbued with 
the importance of the truths I presented, and the assembly was 
greatly melted. Several arose for prayer. 

I have been thinking to-day how much comfort we have en- 
joyed together — how happy we have been in each other's society. 
What mutual confidence, and affection, and unmingled pleas- 
ure have attended our association. Notwithstanding the keen, 
heart-rending, soul-prostrating grief, which will press upon the 
one that is left, when the other shall have gone to our eternal home, 
will there not be a sweet mournful pleasure in thinking of our 
happy union, and also in thinking of its renewal in another world ! 
* * * -* When I reflect on the extreme shortness 
of this life, and the great rapidity with which time is floating us 
down — down to the great ocean of unchanging, endless duration, 
I am more and more astonished at the stupidity of the multitudes 
who know not God, and the thoughtlessness of professors of Chris- 
tianity. If we may judge from the conduct of most men, it would 
seem that they were atheists. God is not in all their thoughts. 
what a lack of principle is there in the multitude, and even in the 
church ! Lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God, appears to 
be the characteristic of the great body of the people, and I fear 



894 MEMOIRS OF 

too of even the church. With all the facilities which we have for 
gaining knowledge, how little love of study we find, how little log- 
ical and sound reasoning. In view of these things, I have, last eve- 
ning and this morning, felt much depressed. * * * 
Farewell. As ever, your affectionate husband, 

D. Marks." 

Friday, Jan. 24, 1840. Mr. Marks returned to Bath, and till 
the middle of April, travelled constantly. In this time he preach- 
ed one hundred and sixty-five sermons in the churches in Yates, 
Penfield, Monroe, Genesee, Erie, Cattaraugus, and Chatauque 
quarterly meetings. While riding, he was constantly studying or 
reading, as had long been his custom ; when he stopped and was 
not in meetings, he was almost continuously writing, and at the 
same time often carrying on an animated conversation. All the 
record of his labors during this period, are a few brief notices in 
the following letters. 

" February 26. The ground was bare. I walked nine miles in 
twenty-two, to my appointment in Parma, and preached nearly two 
hours. The house was full, and the people were very attentive. 
I have had considerable difficulty and much fatigue to get along 
on account of the travelling. Sometimes I almost regret having 
appointments at this season of the year, but then I must have omit- 
ted doing much that I have done towards liquidating my remain- 
ing debts, and until I get this old affair off from my mind, it will be 
difficult for me to pursue my labors with a clear mind and a full 
heart." 

" March 10. The sleighing being gone, I rode thirty four miles 
in the storm on horseback, carrying all my baggage, and preached 
at evening in Colden. I enjoy pretty good spirits, and trust that I 
shall meet some fruits from my present labors in another world. 
I rejoice at the interest you feel in studying the Bible. I hope it 
will furnish matter for conversation and my instruction, particular- 
ly at such times as we may be riding in places w r here I cannot 
read. 

I intended to have conversed some more with you at our last meeting 
in relation to the child given us by our dying sister.* I have thought 
considerably about it. I feel a strong inclination to take her with 
some deduction on account of circumstances. The result is, I am 
passive. I do not wish you to take her to please me — nor not to 
take her to please me — nor to take her out of pity, for this would 
be putting a burden upon you which you are not able to bear, and 
which it is not needful you should bear. I wish you to follow your 

* Mrs. Mark's brother's wife, who left an infant daughter four months old. 



DAVID MARKS. 395 

own inclination, and do what, on the whole, you think will secure 
to you, in all probability, the greatest amount of usefulness and 
enjoyment. I have thought she might be company and a comfort 
to you in future years. Ask wisdom from above, and may God 
direct you. 

I confine myself strictly to a Graham diet. I thank you for 
your kind instrumentality in inducing me to try it. I am not pos- 
itive that it has as yet effected any change except it be to reduce 
my appetite. It may have produced more evenness of temper, 
calmness and cheerfulness of mind, and less liability to disease. I 
wish to sleep less than formerly, from four to six hours being all I 
seem to need. 

* * I cannot tell you what feelings the thoughts of 
your removal by death give me. How solemn the reflection, that 
it will soon be, or that which will be to you more painful, 
shall be taken from you ! Are we prepared ? I trust we are. I 
think we are living for another world, and a happy way it is to 
live. * * 

March 16. I am reading Faber on the prophecies a second time 
and making notes. To-day I resume the study and comparing of 
Fuller and Hall on Communion. I think I am preparing for as 
great performances, as to the amount of labor, as disciplined tem- 
perance and exercise will enable me to perform. Farewell. 

With unshaken, undying affection, I remain your happy hus- 
band, D. Marks." 

" Wirt, Allegany County, April 6, 1840. 
My dearly beloved wife : — 

Since I wrote you last Friday, I have been well, and 
success has in general attended me. The most that has pained 
me has been that I succeed no more in moving upon the consciences 
and hearts of my hearers. I have no difficulty in finding good 
words, and ssund speech, which cannot be gainsayed, but I feel 
exceedingly dissatisfied with myself. I need to get my own soul 
more baptized into the spirit of the subjects on which I preach. I 
have resolved to spend more time in prayer. I need not say to 
you, " Pray for me," for I am satisfied you do this daily, and 
that more faithfully than I do for myself. 

I am now in a blacksmith's shop on my way to Angelica, writ- 
ing on a bench, while my horse is being shod. I cannot describe 
to you the feelings which your account of my brother Jeremiah's 
return gave me, nor tell you how it affected me when his unex- 
pected name was disclosed. Truly it seemed like one coming from 
the dead, for I had little expectation of ever seeing him again. 
Till now I never had much conception of the feelings of relatives, 



396 MEMOIRS OF 

on the return of one from an unknown sea-faring life. O how I 
long to see him. 

I have finished the reading of Combe's "Constitution of Man." 
I have had a great variety of feelings. Sometimes I have felt bad 
—sometimes my admiration has been raised very high. His posi- 
tions with regard to study, health, exercise, and particularly in re- 
lation to the treatment of the poor, are excellent. With respect 
to other things, some seem to me as common truisms and some as 
untenable. Sometimes I could but feel that his positions favored 
infidelity — at other times, they seemed to favor a cold philosophi- 
cal religion. Again, it has seemed that he was not a believer in 
revelation, but used words and sentences like Robert Owen, in a 
new and peculiar sense. I cannot assent to his position, that man 
was created to die, nor to his position, that the Creator designed the 
rude barbarian ignorance which formerly existed, or, in other 
words, that the mere progressive state of rising in the human fam- 
ily, was an original plan of the Deity. His positions in relation 
to the unavoidable wickedness of character created by parents 
in their offspring, are " hard sayings," and unreconcilable with 
Scripture, or with the benevolence and justice of God. But, per- 
haps I do not understand the necessary inferences which follow 
from his positions. Sometimes I fear the reading of this work 
will lead me to be too literal, as Sutton said of McKnight's Com- 
mentary. You know I am already much inclined to dwell upon 
facts and skeleton frames. In relation to a few things pre- 
sented by Combe, my feelings remind me of the Bramin, who with 
his foot crushed the microscope which discovered to him the living 
insects in his food. 

Aurora, April 7. I had a good meeting last evening, and a full 
house. To-day I am to preach twice in Belfast and Rockville, and 
am to stay to-night at brother Bruce's, where, as I told you, I 
admired so much the mother and her children. How charming, 
and yet how unfrequent, the sight of a household regulated in all 
things by the gospel of Christ. Farewell. 

Your affectionate husband, 

D. Marks." 

" Warsaw, April 10, 1840. 
My dear Marilla : — 

Since I wrote you, I have had most excellent meetings. My own 
soul has been much blessed, and I have seen more of the power of 
God attend my preaching. In one of my meetings, forty-two spoke, 
and twenty came forward for prayer. In Pike, the Lord is reviv- 
ing his work gloriously. 



DAVID MABKS. 397 

I rejoice to hear of your improved health and enjoyment. I do 
most earnestly hope, that ' He who tempers the wind to the shorn 
lamb/ will so reconcile you to your lot, that you will not have 
that afflictive gloom which you had when I was gone to Ohio. I 
have not suffered so much agony of feeling, as I did on that occa- 
sion. I cannot attribute this to any loss of affection, for this does 
not seem to be a possibility. Indeed, I do not think such an event 
could possibly occur, except it were in consequence of a departure 
from God ; and we must remember that we are not beyond the 
reach, power, and influence of temptation. In two weeks I hope 
to meet you, and I hope we shall never have to be parted so long 
again. Still we do not know what a day may bring forth. We 
have certainly had a full and sweet cup of social enjoyment. When 
I think of the manner in which many others live, and how pleas- 
antly we have passed our days together, I feel my heart burn with 
gratitude to that God who graciously brought us to see each other's 
face, and to be re-united in heart and in reality for life. * * 
Farewell. As ever, your very affectionate husband, 

D. Marks," 



CHAPTER XXVIIL 

Particulars of Mr. Marks' Labors, tyc. mostly in the State of New 
York, from April, 1840, to July, 1842. 

For several years, Mr. Marks had desired to attend the meet- 
ings of the great benevolent societies, held annually in the city 
of New York. The way for the gratification of this desire was 
now open, and the latter part of April, accompanied by his com- 
panion, he visited the city for this purpose. 

April 23. He attended the American and Foreign Bible Soci- 
ety, and reported the speeches for the Morning Star. The Socie- 
ty voted to give one thousand dollars to the Freewill and General 
Baptist mission in Orissa, to aid in circulating Mr. Sutton's trans- 
lation of the Scriptures in the Oriya language. April 28 — 30, he 
attended the Baptist Anti-Slavery Convention, which was an ex- 
tremely interesting season. It was stated that there were more 
slaves held by Baptists, than by any other denomination. From 
five to twelve hundred were held by single Baptist churches, and 
125,000 by the denomination ! ! He also reported the discussions 
of this convention. Sabbath, May 3, he listened with thrilling in- 
terest to a discourse from Mr. Kirk. His subject was the moral 
34 



398 MEMOIRS OF 

and religious state of France, and he plead eloquently that the 
Foreign Evangelical Society should send missionaries to France. 
He said there was the most power in Paris of any city in the 
world, and more literature, thought, and refinement. Its present 
influence was ruinous. Infidelity, superstition, materialism, abound- 
ed. He expressed the conviction, that the condition of female 
chastity was such as to undermine any government. During the 
ensuing week, Mr. Marks attended the anniversaries of the Sea- 
men's Friend Society, and the American Anti-Slavery Society. 
There was nothing at the latter, which so much interested him, as 
an address from H. P. Garnet, a negro, who was a graduate from 
Oneida Institute, and of whom Governor Seward said, "I nev- 
er listened to eloquence till I listened to Henry P. Garnet." His 
voice was commanding, his enunciation distinct, his ideas bold, his 
descriptions graphic, and his language extremely beautiful. 

Mr. Marks employed his leisure in visiting places of interest in 
the city. Among these, was Mr. Peale's museum, of which he 
made the following record. " New York, Wednesday, May 6. We 
visited Peale's museum. The first object that met us was the 
6 Belgian Giant,' (recently from Europe,) seven feet eight inches 
high. He was well proportioned, and his appearance command- 
ing, weighs about 330 pounds. He is said to be the largest and 
strongest man living. He took a young man about eighteen or twenty 
years of age on his hand, and tossed him as a common man would a little 
child. He was very gentlemanly and sociable — had been in the muse- 
um about six weeks for a show, and was soon going to the Philadelphia 
museum. The next object was an Egyptian mummy, five feet and 
two inches in height. It was taken from a catacomb at Thebes. 
The body was enveloped in sixty-eight thicknesses of linen, the 
most of which had been removed from the face. The features 
were regular, the skin nearly black, and the hair a little cur- 
ly. It was enclosed in a sarcophagus fa sort of coffin] of syc- 
amore wood, which was covered with hieroglyphics. Strange feel- 
ings passed over me while gazing upon this relic of antiquity. 
How far it was from the thoughts of those friends who embalmed 
this body, that it would ever find its way across the mighty ocean, 
and in the New World be a wonder upon which many should 
gaze. After all, how vain is the effort of man to perpetuate his 
memory. While the tenement in which the soul dwelt a few brief 
years, is preserved from decay, the name of the individual has 
been forgotten for centuries. And while acres of catacombs have 
been discovered, it is said that the present inhabitants of Egypt, 
instead of reverencing the respect of their ancestors for the dead, 
are using the mummies for common fuel. Surely, the ' glory of 
man is as grass.' 



DAVID MARKS. 399 

Some of the delegates to the World's Convention, which was to 
meet in London the following June, urged Mr. Marks to accompa- 
ny them, saying, that as the Free-will Baptists had washed their 
hands from the guilt of slavery, they ought to be represented in the 
Convention. But as he had not funds to defray the expenses of 
the voyage, he wrote, at their request, the following letter, which 
was published in London in the " Proceedings" of the Convention, 
in an octavo volume of about six hundred pages, and is copied 
from that work. 

" New York City, May 8, 1840. 

To the World's Anti- Slavery Convention at London^ June 12, 

1840. 

Dear brethren in the cause of suffering humanity, 

The Free-will Baptists 
in the United States, numbering about 40,000 communicants, are 
united in the holy cause of abolition. Probably we should have 
sent a delegation to your Convention, had a knowledge of its ap- 
pointment reached us previous to our anniversaries in 1839. In 
the absence of such a delegation, I will take upon myself the re- 
sponsibility of making some statements respecting our anti-slavery 
sentiments. 

As a people, we mourn that the church in this land is so deeply 
involved in the sin of slavery, and have endeavored to keep our 
garments pure and unspotted from its foul stains. We neither re- 
ceive into our churches, nor at the communion table, any whose 
hands are polluted with slavery. Our Board of Foreign Missions 
refuses to receive any donation or bequest from slave-holders, on 
the principle that their wealth is the wages of iniquity, and the 
price of blood. 

Our churches, which are spread over about half the United 
States, meet together [by delegation] quarterly, in about eighty as- 
sociations. The cause of the down-trodden slave is almost invari- 
ably remembered at these meetings, facts are presented, warm-heart- 
ed, stirring addresses are given, and our testimony against the 
wicked system of slavery is repeated in the form of recorded res- 
olutions. These associations, being held from church to church, 
have been effectual in scattering much light and in tearing away 
many a veil which sophistry had woven. At the last session of 
our General Conference, which comprised a delegation from every 
portion of our denomination, our anti-slavery principles were prac- 
tically tested in a public manner. Dr. Housley, a slave-holding 
minister from Kentucky, accompanied with high recommendations, 
presented himself, desiring admission to our church. Had he been 
received, 20,000 in the slaveholding states would probably have 



400 MEMOIRS OF 

been added to our communion, who with him had embraced our 
peculiar denominational tenets. But his request was met with the 
prompt answer, that he could not be received, either as a minister, 
or a member, till he should give liberty to his slaves. 

Probably, a principal cause of the union of the Free-will Bap- 
tists in abolition efforts, is the righteous course pursued by the 
Morning Star, a weekly religious periodical, which is the organ of 
the denomination. May heavenly wisdom guide your deliberations, 
and direct your decisions. 

Yours in the cause of the slave, 

David Marks." 

Sabbath, May 10, Mr. Marks was laboring under much indispo- 
sition, but having previously accepted an invitation to preach for 
Mr. Dunbar, pastor of the Calvinistic Baptist church in McDougal 
street, he spoke to his congregation in the morning. The audience 
seemed to listen with much interest, and in almost breathless si- 
lence. At the close of the sermon, Mr. Dunbar said to the peo- 
ple, " Mr. Marks will preach to you in the afternoon. I have not 
consulted him, fearing he will decline, and believing if the notice 
is given out, he will not dare to do so. I venture to say you will 
not be disappointed. I shall take him home with me, and shall 
not allow him out of my sight." The excitement of the morning 
service seemed to have imparted to him some strength, so that he 
spoke in the afternoon with much animation and apparent effect. 
At the close of this sermon also, Mr. Dunbar said to the audience, 
that the same speaker would address them again in the evening, 
and added, " I have not dared to ask his consent, lest he should re- 
fuse." Mr. Marks now made remonstrance on account of his ill- 
ness, but it was all useless. He endured a third sermon better than 
he anticipated. This church had ever been an anti-slavery church. 
It was organized in 1809, when slavery was tolerated in the state 
of New York. At that time, they adopted the following article : 
" We believe that a slaveholder, or one who traffics in human be- 
ings, is not a fit member for a gospel church, and that it would be 
sinful for such a church knowingly to suffer one to sit down and 
commune with them." 

Mr. Dunbar seemed much interested in Mr. Marks, and urged 
him to make his arrangements to labor in the city. He said, 
"There is a great destitution of laborers here, that is, of such as 
really care for souls. There are many thousands in this city who 
never go to the house of prayer ; these ought to be visited, and 
conversed with. You can do vast good here. There are many 
Free-will Baptists, and many General Baptists from England, in 
this city, and they want a home. We have some that are mem- 



DAVID MARKS. 401 

bers of our church. They are good Christians, but they are not 
at home with us. They do not believe our distinctive sentiments. 
We will give them letters of commendation to join you, and I will 
help you all I can." Mr. Marks objected, that a difficulty would 
arise from want of means for his support. Mr. Dunbar said : 
"There will be no difficulty on that ground. You can be sustained 
here. I will board you and your wife for the actual cost, and this 
I can do for $3,50 per week." He continued his plea till he made 
considerable impression, and Mr. Marks began seriously to think 
upon the subject. 

His illness continued to increase till he found himself severely 
attacked with bilious fever. He kept his bed two days, and feel- 
ing relieved after the operation of powerful medicines, he ventured 
to take a steamboat to Albany, and thence the Erie canal westward^ 
but was obliged to lie most of the time in his berth. The follow- 
ing incidents of this trip he wrote for the Morning Star. " I had 
been unable, without suffering a day's detention, to get a passage 
in a Sabbath-keeping boat, and while Saturday night was approach- 
ing, as I lay confined by illness most of the time to my berth, the 
thoughts of getting my baggage stored, and stopping a day among 
strangers, would have been burdensome and gloomy, were it not 
that the privilege of reverencing God's Sabbath filled my soul with 
inexpressible peace. Said a gentleman, who had formerly held a 
high office in the state, on learning that I was going to leave Sat- 
urday night : ' You do wrong — you ought to stay here over the 
Sabbath. I heard the captain say he was going to ask you to 
preach to-morrow. You may do much good. If you leave, prob- 
ably there will be no religious services on the boat.' His reason- 
ing failed to convince me that it was right to ' do evil that good 
might come,' or that I should dare to ask God's blessing on my la- 
bors, when I was knowingly breaking his commandments. Two 
professing Christian ladies, who were present, feeling that their in- 
tention of travelling was silently rebuked, resumed the discussion, 
and began to plead, that in their case, at least, it was excusable — 
they were travelling alone, should spend the day in reading the 
Bible, &c. Their arguments were replied to ; they seemed to feel 
their sophistry, though they did not then acknowledge it, and re- 
mained silent. At length, said the eldest lady, s I think I shall 
not travel to-morrow. I have been thinking much of our conver- 
sation. I never before considered it in this light. I do not think 
because it is attended with inconvenience and self-denial to 
keep the commandments, that we can be guiltless in disobedience.' 
On arriving at Syracuse early Saturday evening, I could but give 
thanks to Him who ' tempereth the wind to the shorn lamb,' as 
unexpectedly we came i along side' a beautiful Sabbath-keeping 
34* 



402 MEMOIRS OF 

boat, an incident which precluded any expense of my strength in 
the care of my luggage, I immediately introduced myself to El- 
der Blain, pastor of the Calvinistic Baptist church in Syracuse, who 
received me, not as a stranger, but welcomed me as a ' brother be- 
loved.' The ensuing Sabbath was indeed to me a day of joy. 
The sweet peace and animation that filled my soul, seemed to in- 
vigorate all my physical powers, so that, much to my own surprise, 
I was enabled to comply with the kind invitation of brother Blain 
to preach Christ to his people. One eifort, however, brought on 
so much weakness, that I dared not yield to his often repeated re- 
quest to address them again, but O it was sweet to be in the sanc- 
tuary. 

Sabbath evening, I listened to an address from Mr. Stillman, an 
agent for the American Bethel Society, and never before did the 
sweet charities of Christian benevolence, aiming to convert this 
wicked world into a new " Eden of moral loveliness," seem to me 
so inexpressibly delightful. Mr. Stillman stated, that it had been 
ascertained by a careful examination, that within ten years, the 
amount of crime punishable by law in the state of New York had 
much decreased. [This result had doubtless been produced by the 
temperance reform and the great revivals of religion.] Yet it 
was a startling fact, that half these crimes have been committed 
on the Erie canal, and the cause of this disproportion was clearly 
traceable to the disregard of the Sabbath. All the lines of boats, 
with one noble exception, run on the Sabbath. Boatmen and dri- 
vers are effectually excluded from the blessings of this land of 
Sabbaths. Professors of religion, and even professed ministers of 
that Savior, who came i not to destroy the law,' are often found 
on the boats on God's holy day. The consequence of this state of 
things is a horrid amount of profanity, intemperance, licentious- 
ness, and numberless other crimes that imbrute and ruin the soul; 
and for this, Christians are responsible. 

Mr. Stillman recommended that a complaint be entered against 
every church member that should be guilty of the sin of Sabbath 
travelling on the canal, and that the discipline of the church be as 
impartially exercised upon those that violate the fourth command- 
ment, as upon those that violate the sixth or seventh. My soul 
shuddered as I listened to his portrayal of the crimes and wretch- 
edness he had himself witnessed. Among the cases of ruin that 
he named, were two boys, sons of widows, about twelve or thirteen 
years of age ! who had been employed as drivers. They died the 
past winter, and when he saw them, they were almost literally 
eaten up with that most awful disease which God ever inflicted on 
man, as the immediate consequence of crime. Mr. Stillman an- 
nounced the pleasing intelligence* that the Bethel Society had en- 



DAVID MARKS. 403 

gaged a devoted minister to labor constantly as a missionary on the 
canal till the close of navigation, going from boat to boat, and con- 
versing with the captains, crews, and drivers. He had already vis- 
ited five hundred boats, and in no one instance had been treated 
with the least unkindness or disrespect. The captains and boat- 
men generally told him they would be glad to rest on the Sabbath, 
but the owners of boats refused. Several capitalists whom he vis- 
ited, said they were willing, on their part, that their boats should 
lie still on the Lord's day, but the western merchants would re- 
fuse to patronize them. Many of these western merchants are 
professors of religion !" * * 

On Monday morning, Mr. Marks resumed his journey on the 
canal, and by the time of his arrival in western New York, his 
health had much improved. From the 27th of May to the 18th of 
June, he attended appointments previously notified, extending through 
the Erie, Chatauque, and French Creek quarterly meetings, preach* 
ing usually from one to three times in a day. June 19 — 21, he 
attended the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in Bethany, and 
preached on the Sabbath, standing in one of the windows of the 
meeting house, as not half of the vast concourse could get inside of 
the house. 

Immediately after the yearly meeting, he was attacked on his 
way to Rochester with a disease in his throat, attended with a very 
severe cough, and which confined him to his bed a few days e 
A physician, whom he called, said it was an attack of the bron- 
chitis, and that he must for a time entirely desist from preaching. He 
soon began to amend, but being prohibited from public speaking, he 
went to Canada the early part of July, and spent a few weeks at 
his father-in-law's, writing a treatise on the " Design of the Lord's 
Supper," which was afterwards published by the Book Concern, 
with three other essays, in a volume, entitled Free Communionist. 
The following incidents, connected with this visit to Canada, he 
wrote for the Morning Star. 

"On approaching the Canadian shore, Gen. Brock's stately 
monument on Queenston heights appeared a prominent object. 
From the accounts in the public journals of its having been c blown 
up,' I had received the impression that it lay a mass of ruins. At 
a distance, no change in its appearance is perceptible ; but on a 
nearer approach, the ruthless work of the enemy was clearly dis- 
cernible. The monument was riven from its base to its top-stone, 
a distance of about 125 feet. * * I was every where kindly re- 
ceived and cordially welcomed. Indeed, I never travelled among 
a more hospitable people than the Upper Canadians. In my jour- 
neyings in the province, I have frequently called among entire 
strangers, and met with almost reproofs for offering to pay for fa- 



404 MEMOIRS OF 

vors I had asked ; nor had the late commotions altered their char- 
acter in this respect. Much of the country is delightfully situated, 
and the soil is equal to western New York. Some sections are 
fast improving. Woodstock, [in the town of Oxford,] the principal 
village of Brock District, has sprung into being with the rapidity 
characteristic of the villages of our western states. It has an ele- 
gant Court House, and, together with its vicinity, contains the 
beautiful seats of several of the English gentry. Five different de- 
nominations hold meetings in this village every Sabbath : the Epis- 
copalian, Scotch Kirk, Free-communion Baptist, Methodist, and 
Christian. The latter is distinct from the sect of that name in the 
United States. Their denomination arose in Wales. Among their 
distinguishing peculiarities, is the order of their meetings. When 
they assemble for ' worship J they all sit together, and do not al- 
low those they consider impenitent to mingle with them. On such 
occasions, they have no one selected to preach to them, but any one 
who chooses may speak, or pray, or engage in any act of worship, 
to which his views of duty may lead him. They have separate 
meetings, in which they preach to the wicked, but these they do 
not call meetings of worship. Our Free-communion Baptist breth- 
ren, so far as I could learn, were prospering. Their church in the 
village of Woodstock is flourishing. They have a house of wor- 
ship, a respectable congregation, a good Sabbath school, and enjoy 
the labors of an excellent and talented pastor. A few months since, 
they were blessed with a precious revival. In the vicinity of Long 
Point, the Free-communion brethren were sharing one of the most 
powerful revivals that has ever visited that section of country. 

Our brethren of the London quarterly meeting are in a very 
scattered state. The rebellion had a disastrous effect on the 
churches of this association. A large proportion of the members, 
and some of the preachers, fearing the troubles and distress of a 
tedious war, emigrated to Michigan, Illinois, &c. Those that were 
left thought it was useless to struggle any longer against the op- 
posing influences that surrounded them, and concluded to give up 
their quarterly meeting. Time passed on, yet they could not rest 
satisfied. At length a few brethren met together, and after a sea- 
son of weeping and prayer, they determined on making another ef- 
fort to renew the quarterly meeting. They have only two minis- 
ters left them. 

During my stay in the province, the colored people, to the num- 
ber of about two hundred, held a camp meeting in Norwich, a town 
a few miles distant from Woodstock. Most of these were fugitives 
escaped from republican slavery. The meeting was attended with 
the Divine blessing, and gained the reputation of having been one 
of the most solemn, orderly meetings of the kind ever held in the 



DAVID MARKS. 405 

province. I heard many contradictory opinions respecting the 
character of the negro fugitives. Some represent them as most de- 
graded and wicked, — others say they are grateful for favors, up- 
right, moral, and industrious. The testimony gathered from those 
who best knew them, as well as from facts that fell under my own 
observation, generally corroborated the latter opinion. Doubtless, 
there is every variety of character among them, as they partake of 
the depravity common to man, and probably are as bad, or nearly 
so j as white people would be in the same circumstances. Bred 
from infancy amid scenes of oppression, cruelty, and licentiousness, 
sunk in ignorance, and unrestrained by moral or religious consider- 
ations, it would be contrary to the laws which govern mind, and 
indeed would amount to a miracle, were they, without the use of 
means, to be metamorphosed instantly into beings of great moral or 
intellectual worth. 

There is much work in this province for the temperance society, 
as there is much intemperance, especially among the higher class ; 
that is, what ' temperance folks' call intemperance, — though per- 
haps the devotees of fashionable custom might think this a slander- 
ous accusation. Some of the ministers of the Scotch Kirk have re- 
cently engaged in the cause with an ardor becoming their profes- 
sion, and are exerting a great influence in reforming the dissipated 
habits of their people. If the ministers of the established church 
would follow their example, incalculable good to Canada would be 
the result. The Scotch and English inhabitants are generally 
members of their respective churches, and are very punctual in 
their attendance upon their Sabbath services. They also refrain 
from some sins on that day in which they indulge on other days. 
They look upon it as very i heathenish' not to be a member of 
some church, while their lives evince that the power which pro- 
duces a change in the jiffections and conduct, is generally wanting. 
There is great need of more humble, holy, evangelical ministers, 
who, alike regardless of praise or censure, shall boldly tell the peo- 
ple, that the swearer, the gambler, the fornicator, the adulterer, 
though he may belong to a church below, can have no inheritance 
in the kingdom of God." 

Mr. Marks returned to New York in September, having preach- 
ed little for two months. His throat was apparently well, and he 
now resumed the employment he so passionately loved. From the 
1st of Oct. to the 19th of November, he visited and preached with 
fifty churches in the Monroe, Penfield, Yates, Genesee, Erie, and 
Chatauque quarterly meetings. As winter approached, he deemed 
it prudent to locate for a season. Accordingly, he accepted a call 
to labor half the time with the church in the little village of Varys- 
burg, in the town of Sheldon, Wyoming Co., where he again com- 



406 MEMOIRS OF 

menced house-keeping. The Sheldon High School, under the pat- 
ronage of the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, was located here, 
and was in a flourishing condition. He commenced his labors in 
December. In the latter part of the month, he held a protracted 
meeting in Portage, a village on the Genesee river, noted for its 
irreligion, about twenty miles distant from Yarysburg. The 
meeting was blessed to the conversion of several. He organ- 
ized a church, consisting at first of twelve members, and engaged 
to labor with them half the time for a season. The church soon 
had several additions, and they immediately commenced building a 
house of worship. He now applied himself very laboriously to his 
pastoral duties, visiting and praying not only with the members of 
his own and other churches, but with the people generally. In- 
deed, there were few, if any, families in Varysburg and its vicini- 
ty, with whom he did not have personal religious conversation and 
prayer. He also met a class of four young ministers weekly, 
(three of them members of the school,) to whom he gave instruc- 
tion and criticised their skeletons prepared for the occasion. 

Varysburg had for some time been a very wicked village. In- 
temperance, and its kindred vices, had long blighted its moral pros- 
pects, and sectarian bigotry had paralyzed the efforts of God's min- 
isters. Mr. Marks could find no rest for his spirit amidst such a 
state of things. He determined to commence a series of efforts to 
remove this pall of death, and labor with a faithfulness, which, at 
least, should clear his garments from the blood of the people. He 
was aware that it would be a long and severe struggle, but his trust 
was in God, and he had faith in the power of his word. He knew 
it to be mighty to the pulling down of the strong holds of satan. 
Sometime in January, he commenced a protracted meeting, preach- 
ing from two to three times a day, at the same time holding in- 
quiry meetings, and visiting from house to house. Thus he toiled 
for three weeks, with little apparent effect. Some of the members 
of the church had taken hold well in the work, some backsliders 
had been reclaimed, and a few converted. But many that were 
serious soon after the commencement of the meeting, had harden- 
ed their hearts ; the students, on whose minds it was evident con- 
viction had fastened, seemed leagued together to resist religious in- 
fluences ; the faith of Christians that they should see a revival be- 
gan to fail, and the visible prospect of a general work was dark in- 
deed. At this period, Mr. Marks' agony of spirit was almost over- 
powering. He felt that if Christians relaxed their efforts, there 
would be little hope for the spiritual welfare of Varysburg. His 
mind was now led almost constantly to the subject of death. He 
felt that it was about to visit the people, and so powerful was the 
impression, that he several times mentioned in public, that he be- 



DAVID MARKS. 407 

Heved that death was going to sweep through the place, and carry 
mourning into many families ; and at the same time, he entreated 
the people in the most moving and pathetic manner, to prepare for 
its approach. A day of fasting and prayer was now held for the 
conversion of the students ; and on this occasion, Mr. Marks preach- 
ed a funeral sermon for the first individual of the congregation that 
should die. It was evident that deep impressions were made, and 
in the evening many crowded the altar for prayer, trembling, and 
confessing their need of Christ ; and, to the great joy of Christians, 
several professed to find pardon. The scene was glorious and aw- 
fully solemn on account of the Divine presence ; and for a few 
succeeding days, the place seemed almost shaken by the power of 
God. Mr. Marks remarked that he never before saw so many in 
one place so deeply affected by the truth, neither had he ever seen 
so much resistance to its power. He doubted whether there was an 
individual in the village, or within some distance of the village, that 
was not solemnly impressed. Some dared not attend the meeting, 
lest they should be converted ; others would leave the village un- 
der pretence of business. Two gentlemen, of perhaps as much 
talent and influence as any in the place, agreed, intension of the 
work, that if one would arise for prayer, the other would. Accord- 
ingly when an opportunity was presented, one of them arose ; but 
no sooner was he on his feet, than it came powerfully to his con- 
science, that he had gone too far in so solemn a matter, and, yield- 
ing instantly to his convictions, he spoke almost before he was 
aware, confessing himself a great sinner, and saying that he was 
resolved to seek the Savior. The assembly seemed electrified, and 
Christians began to feel that nothing was too hard for the Lord. 
This gentleman was soon after converted, and became a zealous la- 
borer in the work. His comrade dared not arise. Soon after- 
wards, he too was numbered with the sincere inquirers for salva- 
tion, and, with his wife, professed to find peace in submission to 
Christ. The work spread amidst much opposition, till about sixty 
were converted, including some that were entirely backslidden ; 
and a much greater number, it was believed, resisted the convic- 
tions of their duty. Such was the grief of Mr. Marks on this ac- 
count, that he could hardly rejoice for the success the truth had 
gained. During the progress of the work, still feeling deeply im- 
pressed with the idea that the desolating tide of death was about 
to roll through the place, he appointed another day of fasting and 
prayer for the conversion of twelve of the most influential business 
men in the vicinity, and on the occasion, preached a funeral ser- 
mon for the first of the number who should die. 

Immediately after the close of the protracted meeting, (which 
continued about eight weeks,) a disease, to which the physicians 



MEMOIRS OF 

gave no name, commenced its fearful ravages in this hitherto 
healthful vale. It partook of the symptoms of spotted fever and 
erysipelas. Its first victim was an individual who had not attend- 
ed the meeting, consequently it could not be said that excitement 
and exposure to evening air, originated the malady. It soon raged 
with a most alarming fatality, and in a few days, more than thirty 
in Varysburg and vicinity, within the limits of two miles, were sud- 
denly hurried to eternity. One of the twelve for whom a day of 
fasting and prayer was held, was of this number. Few families 
were left unvisited by this dreadful sickness, and there were scarce- 
ly persons enough in health to take care of the sick. Some lived 
but a few hours after they were seized, and in some cases the 
bodies were so putrid that they were obliged to be buried in five 
or six hours after they had ceased to breathe. Those that recov- 
ered, in many instances, regained their health very slowly* It was 
a remarkable circumstance, and one that was frequently named, 
that not one of the converts or the reclaimed, fell a victim to the 
disease. Several of the number that died were Christians, and left 
the world rejoicing. Others died without hope. After the sick- 
ness began to rage, there were no more cases of conversion. The 
impenitent trembled in view of this judgment, while fear and anxi- 
ety sat upon their countenances. Still they refused to repent and 
give glory to God. They did not know the time of their visitation ; 
and now it seemed to be hid from their eyes. 

In the month of April, 1841, Mr. Marks received a letter from 
a brother in the city of New York, spreading out before him the 
great field then opened for Free-will Baptists to do good in that 
city, and urging him to occupy it without delay. He offered to be- 
come responsible, on certain conditions, for the rent of a hall for 
public worship, and said there would be no difficulty in raising 
means for his support. Such was the interesting state of things at 
Varysburg, and the victory that had been gained, had been achiev- 
ed at such expense, that Mr. Marks did not feel at liberty to leave 
immediately, and accordingly returned an answer that he thought 
he would go the ensuing autumn. He soon received a reply, say- 
ing that, on several accounts, the spring would be the most favora- 
ble for commencing a meeting, and if he could not come immediate- 
ly, it would be best to defer it till another spring. This he pre- 
ferred, as it gave him more time for preparation. 

In June, he attended the Holland Purchase yearly meeting, and 
was appointed a delegate to the General Conference, which was to 
convene the ensuing October in Topsham, Me. He was also ap- 
pointed a delegate with two other brethren, to the New York 
Christian Anti-slavery Convention, to meet in Auburn, June 23, 
to deliberate on the duty of the church in regard to slavery. The 



DAVID MARKS. 409 

yearly meeting wrote a letter to the Convention, taking high 
ground on the slavery question. At the day appointed, more than 
two hundred ministers and brethren, of different evangelical denom- 
inations, assembled in the large Methodist stone chapel, where a 
year before even an anti-slavery notice was not allowed to be read. 
The Convention continued in session two days. The letter from 
the Holland Purchase yearly meeting was listened to with much 
interest by the Convention, and a vote was taken to publish it with 
the minutes. There was much warm, interesting, and animated 
discussion on the different resolutions, in which Mr. Marks took a 
part, and which he briefly reported for the Morning Star. 

July 4, he attended a temperance convention at Wyoming vil- 
lage, met for forming a county society for the new county of Wy- 
oming, recently set off from Genesee, embracing thirteen towns. 
The assembly, amounting to about two thousand, was convened 
under the dense foliage of an ornamental forest, belonging to the 
mansion of Mr. J. C. Ferris. A very ingenious and interesting 
" Declaration of Independence, and of War, against King Alcohol," 
was drawn up much in the language of our national declaration of 
independence* 

In compliance with the invitation of several gentlemen in War- 
saw, Mr. Marks preached a discourse with much acceptance in that 
village on the following question : " Is it consistent with the Chris- 
tian religion to vote for a pro-slavery candidate for any office af- 
fecting the rights of the slave ?" His text was Exodus, 18:21. 
" Moreover thou shalt provide out of all the people, able men, such 
as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness, and place such over 
them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of 
fifties, and rulers of tens." Also, 2 Sam. 23:3. " He that ruleth 
over men must be just, ruling in the fear of the Lord." 

Having made provision for supplying his two churches with 
preaching for two months, he set out with his companion in his own 
conveyance for the General Conference in Maine. On his journey 
he visited his father in Tyre, and as he purposed giving him $50, 
toward building him a small house, he concluded to make some 
purchases of lumber for him. For this object, he went to Clyde, a 
village on the canal, about six miles from Tyre, and as he supposed 
was seen paying out money. He left Clyde to return to his father's 
at eight o'clock in the evening, and after riding about half a mile 
from the village, he got out of his carriage and passed around to 
the back part to take out some fruit. While thus engaged, a stran- 
ger accosted him, saying, " Sir, you must go with me. I am an 
officer, and have a warrant for you." Without any suspicion or 
fear, he replied, " You must be mistaken in the person you are 
seeking. I am a minister. My name is David Marks." " No, 
that is the very name. I am not mistaken. You must go with me, 
35 



410 MEMOIRS OF 

and it will be useless for you to resist/' Glancing at him, he saw 
by the light of the moon that he Avas shabbily dressed, and from all 
the circumstances, he felt satisfied that he was a robber. Looking 
around, he perceived that he was in a " dug-way," surrounded by 
woods and no house in sight. He stepped forward, caught his 
horse's reins, and sprang on the forward end of his carriage without 
waiting to get in. Instantly, the stranger seized his horse by the 
bits. Mr. Marks asked him to show him his warrant. He said, 
" I will," and putting his hand into his pocket, took out something 
that glistened in the moon-light like bright steel, and resembled in ap- 
pearance the muzzle of a pistol. Mr. Marks sat perfectly self-pos- 
sessed, with the reins firmly grasped in one hand, and his whip over 
his shoulder, watching every movement of the robber. He judged 
that there was some difficulty about his pistol that he was unable 
to remove with one hand. At length, he stepped directly before 
the horse, and let go the .bits. Instantly, Mr. Marks struck his 
horse a heavy blow, at the same time, reining him a little one 
side. He sprang several feet the first bound, and flew over the log 
cross-way with great speed. When the robber saw his prey had 
escaped, he set up a terrible cry, and threw a volley of stones, 
which, however, were harmless in their effects. After Mr. Marks 
found himself safe, a sense of his narrow escape from a violent 
death so overcame him that he could scarcely sit in his carriage. 
Considerable pains were taken to detect the robber, but without 
success. Shortly afterwards, in nearly the same place, another 
stranger was attacked in a similar manner, by a person of a similar 
appearance. He knocked the robber down and then fled. 

Prosecuting his journey, Mr. Marks stopped a night in Peter- 
boro' with Mr. Gerritt Smith, in whose kind family he was very 
affectionately received, and with whom he had an exceedingly in- 
teresting interview. The Saturday following, he arrived at Clin- 
ton Seminary, an institution the Free-will and Free-communion 
Baptists had recently purchased. It was free of access to all with- 
out distinction of color, and was in a flourishing condition. Mr. 
Marks preached four sermons in Clinton. 

September 8, he attended the Free-communion Baptist General 
Conference at Ames, Montgomery county. This Conference was 
composed of fifty-eight churches, and was to decide the issue of the 
negotiation that had been for some time going on, for a union with 
the Free-will Baptists. Thirty-two of the churches reported in fa- 
vor of union, thirteen opposed, and thirteen made no report. Con- 
sidering the nature of the business, the session was very harmoni- 
ous. A resolution was passed, saying that they considered the 
names Free Baptist, Free-communion Baptist, Open-communion 
Baptist, Free-will Baptist, as significant of the same people. Three 



DAVID MARKS. 411 

delegates were appointed to the Free-will Baptist General Confer- 
ence, who were instructed to present a request for the admission of 
their churches, to membership with that body. 

The ensuing Saturday evening, Mr. Marks arrived in Troy. 
The Washingtonian temperance reform was exciting much atten- 
tion. Learning there was a street temperance meeting, he attend- 
ed, and being called upon by the gentleman whom he accompanied, 
he addressed the meeting a few moments. At its close, he was re- 
quested to lecture on temperance the next day in the street in West 
Troy. Sabbath morning, he preached a sermon on temperance in 
East Troy, and then attended worship in Dr. Beman's church. At 
the close of the afternoon service, he preached on temperance in the 
street in West Troy, and in the evening, preached by request in 
the Methodist chapel. The audience was large ; it was a season of 
much solemnity and weeping, and several presented themselves for 
prayer. Monday morning at sunrise, he gave another street lec- 
ture in East Troy, according to a previous appointment. 

Continuing his journey, he attended a few meetings by the way, 
and lectured again on temperance in the street in East Arlington, 
Vt., and in Pittsfield, N. H. In the latter place, he spent a week 
with Elder D. P. Cilley, and preached a few sermons. Sabbath, 
Oct. 3, he spent in Portsmouth. He had heard of the temperance 
reform in that place, but was hardly prepared for the reception he 
met, and the change he saw. Instead of the contempt and reproach 
that he used to meet, even in the street, for the carrying out of his 
temperance principles, the people seemed to delight to do him hon- 
or. After preaching twice during the day, he lectured on temper- 
ance in the public market to a large crowd. A temperance meet- 
ing, appointed for the evening in one of the houses of worship, was 
adjourned to the Free-will Baptist house, on learning that Mr. 
Marks would be there. He gave them a short address, which was 
received with much enthusiasm. Next morning, the people made 
him up a purse of several dollars, and, as it stormed violently, they 
gave out notice, without consulting him, that he would attend a 
meeting in the afternoon, and industriously circulated it among the 
sailors. But the fury of the storm abating, he could not be per- 
suaded to remain, as he had scarcely time to reach Topsham by the 
opening of the Conference. His road lay along the Atlantic coast. 
The ocean was rolling tremendous waves, and with their white 
caps, presented a more sublime and terrific spectacle than he had 
ever before witnessed upon this great "high way of nations." 
Shortly afterwards, it was ascertained that many boats were 
wrecked, and many lives lost in this dreadful gale. 

October 6, 1841. At the hour appointed, the Conference opened 
its eleventh session, and adopted rules, requiring the delegates to 



• 



412 MEMOIRS OF 

spend eleven hours and a half daily in session, besides the time 
spent on committees. Forty-two delegates attended. The yearly 
meetings reported general prosperity and more than an ordinary 
increase. In addition to the duties of a member of the Conference, 
Mr. Marks was reporter of their discussions, and some of the time 
sat up nearly the whole of the night* A very interesting letter 
was read from Mr. Pike of England, severely condemning slavery. 
The delegates from the Free-communion Baptists presented their 
request for the admission of their body to membership, which was 
granted unanimously. Their number was about twenty-five hun- 
dred. Their churches were mostly in the vicinity of Utica. 

Spirited resolves were passed on the subject of Missions, Popery, 
Moral Reform, Education, Sabbath schools, Temperance, &c. 
Among those passed on Temperance was the following : 

66 Hesolved, That we advise the churches to prepare and use none 
but unfermented wine at the Lord's Supper, and that the Clerk in- 
sert in the minutes a recipe for preparing such wine/' 

The resolutions on Education recommended to the general pat- 
ronage of the denomination the Free-will Baptist Education Socie- 
ty (which had been recently formed,) and requested prayer for the 
different literary institutions in operation among the churches. The 
Conference continued its sitting for a week, but had several ad- 
journments to attend the anniversaries of the Free-will Baptist 
Mission Societies, Education Society, and Sabbath school Union, 
which, for the sake of convenience, had been appointed at this time. 
Mr. Marks reported also the discussions at these anniversaries, 
which were very interesting, especially those of the Education So- 
ciety, of which he then became a member. He presented a reso- 
lution to the Society, the purport of which was, that we ought not 
to expect that God will miraculously supply us with that knowledge 
which can be obtained by the common use of our faculties. In its 
support, he said: 

* * * a Xhe wise man says ; ' The heart of the prudent man 
getteth knowledge ;' from which it would seem that instead of wait- 
ing for God to transmit it to us without our agency, it is the busi- 
ness of prudent men to get it. Again, says the same inspired wri- 
ter, ' The ear of the wise seeketh knowledge/ From this testimo- 
ny, it is clear that those who do not seek knowledge are not wise. 
That it is not sufficient that ministers be sincere and good men, is 
clear from the word of the Lord to Jeremiah : ' And I will give 
you pastors according to my own heart, which shall feed you with 
knowledge and understanding.' From this, we can see how God 
looks upon ministers who cannot feed the people with knowledge 
and understanding : he does not consider such ministers as ' after 
his own heart.' Another testimony from Malachi coincides with 



DAVID MARKS. 413 

this. ' The priest's lips should keep knowledge, and they [the 
people] should learn the law from his mouth/ There we are not 
only told that knowledge should be kept by ministers, but also that 
the people should learn the law from their mouth. Again, God 
said by Hosea, * My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge.' 
Thus it was not knowledge, but the want of it, that caused their 
destruction. A minister of Jesus Christ, above all other men, 
should be the last one to plead for the neglect of study ; for it is 
written again in Hosea, ' Because thou hast rejected knowledge, I 
will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me.' This 
scripture is very explicit ; and as God has not changed the princi- 
ples of his action, we can now see why some good men, who have 
been called to the ministry, are comparatively useless in the vine- 
yard of the Lord. They have ' rejected knowledge ;' and for this 
cause, God has rejected them. Let it not then be said, that the 
friends of education have crowded those who will not study from 
the field of usefulness. They have not done this thing. God did 
it, because they rejected knowledge." 

On the Sabbath, between the afternoon and evening service, Mr. 
Marks preached a temperance sermon to a large congregation in 
the street in Brunswick village, separated from Topsham by the 
Androscoggin river. During the early part of the week, he set 
out on his return to New York. Sabbath, October 17, he preached 
in Portsmouth, and there learned that the missionaries, Mr. and 
Mrs. Noyes, had just arrived from India, the health of both having 
failed. He had with them an interesting interview. Great anxi- 
ety had been felt on their account, as they had been expected for 
some time, and it was feared they had been lost in the late gale. 
They had indeed suffered greatly, having been obliged to put out 
to sea when within a few leagues of Boston, and had been beating 
about for nearly three weeks, often exposed to the most imminent 
danger. Thursday, Oct. 21, he left Dover, and preaching a few 
times by the way, arrived in Varysburg the last of the month, and 
was rejoiced to find that the Washingtonian temperance reform had 
reached this little village, and had rescued several of its inebriates. 

In the early part of November, Mrs. Marks' little neice, given 
her by her dying mother, became a member of the family. Ever 
after, she was a great favorite with Mr. Marks, and occupied a 
large place in his affections. She was then a little more than two 
years old. 

Mr. Marks now resumed his labors with the churches in Varys- 
burg and Portageville ; but as the latter place was so far from his 
residence, it made his work too hard. The church was prospering, 
had nearly finished their house of worship, and he persuaded them 
to get another pastor. After the first of January, 1842, he labored 
35* 



414 MEMOIRS OF 

half the time till the ensuing May, with the church in Java, eight 
miles from Var ysburg. They had been in great trials, and despair- 
ing of settling their affairs, concluded to disband and organize anew. 
Accordingly they sent for Mr. Marks to aid them in their re-or- 
ganization. He told them he thought their course unscriptural, 
but consented to assist them, provided they would exercise disci- 
pline, and settle their differences by the law of Christ. He met 
them in a protracted church meeting, which lasted about a week. 
This resulted in the amicable adjustment of affairs with but one or 
two cases of discipline. The church felt encouraged, and began 
building a house of worship. He commenced a protracted meeting 
with them, and was soon rejoiced to see a flattering prospect of 
success. Several were awakened, some were converted, and added 
to the church, and there were good indications of a general work, 
when, on his return from an evening meeting, he was suddenly 
seized with a severe distress in his stomach, and would have fallen 
to the ground, if he had not been supported. For several clays 
following, he was confined to a bed of sickness, and, after he was 
able to be carried home, remained very feeble for some time, though 
he continued the discharge of his pastoral duties. 

The time was drawing near, that he had appointed for going to 
New York city, but while he was planning the necessary arrange- 
ments, he received an unexpected call to go to a western field. 
The Ohio and Pennsylvania yearly meetings had formed an Edu- 
cation Society, which had resolved to get a Seminary of the first 
order into operation, and a very earnest request was sent him to 
come to their aid, and be their agent. He hardly knew what to do. 
His health had for years been so frail, and exposures consequent 
on travelling had so greatly injured him, that he had thought he 
was firm in his purpose of settling in some place where he could 
find labor enough to do without travelling, and at the same time, 
pursue a course of study, that would the better prepare him to 
write some works for the Free-will Baptist denomination, which 
had long been on his mind to write. New York he thought offered 
these facilities. Now another path of usefulness was presented. 
He had long looked upon the Western Valley with much interest, 
and had deeply felt the need that something should be done to 
arouse and prepare Free-will Baptist churches to act efficiently in 
the great moral battle-field of the West. Another circumstance 
had its influence in guiding his decision. Oberlin was in the vicin- 
ity of this new field. He had loved it from its early settlement, 
and, as has been already mentioned, had greatly desired to enjoy its 
rich literary privileges, and be benefited by its high tone of piety. 
After much consideration and prayer, he finally concluded to ac- 
cept the call to Ohio, and make Oberlin his home for a season. 



DAVID MARKS. 4l5 

In the early part of May, he made a tour to Upper Canada, 
where he left his companion with her parents while he could visit 
and take leave of the churches in the Holland Purchase yearly 
meeting. From the 21st of May to the 10th of July, he visited and 
preached with forty-six churches, attended the Genesee quarterly 
meeting in Bennington, and the Holland Purchase yearly meeting in 
Middlebury. The yearly meeting was deeply interesting. The 
quarterly meetings reported revivals and more energetic action in 
the various causes of Christian benevolence. Mr. Marks requested 
a dismission from the yearly meeting of which he had been a mem- 
ber more than twenty years, to unite with one of the Ohio yearly 
meetings. A very kind and affectionate commendatory letter was 
given him ; and, unexpectedly to him, the yearly meeting confer- 
ence passed the following vote of thanks : 

" Resolved, That we render our unfeigned thanks to Elder David 
Marks for his services in this yearly meeting for the last twenty 
years, and gratefully acknowledge the aid he has rendered us in 
his indefatigable labors for the advancement of the cause of Christ 
in this region." 

A few further particulars respecting his labors and the industri- 
ous occupancy of his time, may be gathered from the following ex- 
tracts from his letters. 

"My carriage, near Niagara Falls, U. C. May 20, 1842. 

My dearly beloved wife : — 

My health is good and I am happy. The 
morning is beautiful, the road very smooth, and I commence wri- 
ting this letter while riding in a wagon at the rate of five miles 
per hour. The day I left you, especially the latter part of it, I was 
very calm and happy. My time was spent mostly in meditations, 
which were sweet to my soul — such as the certainty of the hope of 
eternal life, where sickness, sorrow, labor, and pain, will be un- 
known, and loved friends will part no more. O how sweet were 
these reflections. What a luxury it is to the soul to contemplate 
the ineffable glories of eternal life, not in a vague, general, and in- 
definite manner, as by a glimmering light, but as a tangible reality, 
an i anchor sure and steadfast.' These sweet reflections were 
awakened by those lonely feelings which had at first come over me, 
in consequence of the long separation which was to take place be- 
tween us. While my thoughts wandered over the thirteen years 
which have passed since w r e first met, and lingered on that kind 
providence which has ever attended us amidst all the changes of 
this rapid flight of time, my heart was melted with a feeling of 
gratitude and thankfulness which was inexpressibly sweet. 



416 MEMOIRS OP 

As I draw near the Falls which are so celebrated I must lay 
aside my pen to listen to their majestic roar, gaze upon their awful 
grandeur, and contemplate the greatness of their Author. 

May 24. I had a pleasant time in passing the mighty cataract. 
I crossed the Niagara the same day, and left Buffalo about 6 
o'clock, P. M., then rode twenty seven miles by a delightful moon- 
light, and arrived at Darien at half past eleven o'clock. 

The quarterly meeting, [Genesee, at Bennington,] was attend- 
ed by a larger number of delegates than I have seen at the quar- 
terly meeting for many years ; and on the Sabbath, notwithstanding 
the heavy rain, a large congregation was present. It was on the 
whole the best quarterly session this association of churches has 
had for years. Brother Philander W. Belknap was ordained. It 
was my lot to preach the ordination sermon, and my soul was bap- 
tized into the spirit of my subject. I preached my farewell dis- 
courses at Varysburg and Orange ville the 2 2d of May." * * * 

" My carriage, Castile, June 8, 1842. 
My dearly beloved wife : — 

The travelling of seventy miles extra, the 
settling of Book Concern accounts with several assistant agents, 
the completion of my eleventh Star report, and keeping a copy of 
the same, together with my personal business, daily appointments, 
and travels, have occupied me so closely, that I have had little 
sleep or rest for eight days past. Even the whole time that I have 
been riding has been occupied in writing or arranging accounts. I 
am getting so as to write letters to others while riding as well as to 
my dear companion. * * * 

The church in Portageville still prospers. It now numbers 
about sixty members. I preached in Naples in the Methodist 
chapel to a very crowded house, spoke two hours and had one of 
my best seasons. I never saw a stiller or more attentive assembly 
for the same length of time, so far as extraneous noises were con- 
cerned. * * * * 

June 15. I found a revival in Freedom under the labors of 
Elder Benjamin McKoon. Nine were converted the night after 
I preached there. The church were finishing off their meeting 
house, which was covered six years ago ! I take much comfort, 
enjoy excellent liberty in preaching, and am kindly received in ev- 
ery place. My old Rochester affairs are nearly settled. * * * 
Farewell. Your affectionate husband, 

D. Marks." 



DAVID MARKS. 417 



CHAPTER XXIX. 

Mr, Marks* Labors in the cause of Christian Education, fyc. in 
Ohio and New Hampshire, from July 1842, to Nov, 1844. 

Mr. Marks gave a lecture by request in Hamburg, on the 4th of 
July, on the duty of voters. This subject, as well as temperance, 
education, &c, he always treated very religiously, and enforced its 
practical obligation by arguments drawn directly from Scripture. 
He usually selected a text, and conducted the services in the same 
manner as any meeting of religious worship. Often these occasions 
were melting, solemn seasons. After the close of the lecture, he 
rode to Buffalo, met his companion returning from Canada, and 
with her proceeded on his way to his field of labor in Ohio. 

July 13. He preached in Cherry Valley, and next morning, in 
company with Elder Ransom Dunn, (who had been instrumental 
in engaging his services for the Western Reserve Education Soci- 
ety,) continued his journey to Chester, Geauga county, nineteen 
miles east of Cleaveland, the place the society had in view in which 
to locate their Seminary. July 15, the society convened. They 
had no funds to meet the expenses of an agent, and but extremely 
limited collections could be immediately made. The churches 
among which they were going to send their agent were many of 
them but recently organized, small, comparatively poor, mostly 
without meeting houses, and able to sustain preaching but a part of 
the time. Mr. Marks, with his usual self-sacrificing spirit, changed 
the terms of his services. He had stipulated to receive his pay 
quarterly from the society, in order to meet his expenses ; but now 
he agreed to wait till it could be collected from the subscription he 
might raise for the society. In addition to the agency, he accepted 
the appointment of Corresponding Secretary. It was also decided 
to open the school immediately at Chester. The directors pur- 
chased eighty acres of land, designed for a manual labor farm, at a 
cost of $1593, which was paid for with a part of $2159, which had 
been subscribed in Chester, and $100, relinquished by the Free- 
will Baptist Education Society in New England, from the bequest 
of Mr. Luke Philbrick, of Chester. 

Mr. Marks spent several days in getting the school into opera- 
tion. Subscriptions for between twenty-five and thirty scholars 
were obtained, the services of brother Asahel Nichols were secured 
as teacher for a short season, and the school was immediately 
opened in the Free-will Baptist chapel. Mr. Marks then visited 
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel Branch, at that time teachers of Farmington 



418 . MEMOIRS OF 

Academy, for the purpose of engaging them as permanent teachers 
in Chester. They removed to Chester the February following, 
took charge of the school at the commencement of the third quarter, 
which charge they have ever since retained. They have been very 
faithful, laborious, and self-denying in their efforts, and have seen 
many of their pupils converted. 

In the month of August, Mr. Marks, after removing his family to 
Oberlin, commenced a tour through the churches connected with the 
Ohio and Pennsylvania yearly meeting. The Education Board 
had resolved that the subscription should be opened to articles of 
all kinds that are bought and sold, except slaves and intoxicating 
drink, or such things as would make the reception a violation of 
principle. The following brief account of the agent's labors till the 
last of January, 1843, is taken from an article published in the 
Morning Star. 

" In the month of August, 1842, I commenced a tour through 
the churches belonging to the Ohio and Pennsylvania yearly meet- 
ing, and in three weeks visited and preached with twenty churches, 
and raised a subscription of $2007,85. Not the first word of op- 
position did I hear from a single individual in these churches. * * 
In Pennsylvania, the most sanguine expectations were more than 
realized ; for, notwithstanding the churches were nearly all new, 
small, and poor, there was, according to their ability, a greater lib- 
erality among them than among the churches in Ohio, for in twen- 
ty-seven churches that were visited, $1298. were subscribed. In- 
deed, in some instances, poor females that had large families, came 
forward with tears, and wished to subscribe a dollar per year to be 
paid in knitting. Others wished to subscribe on condition that 
health would permit, and others on condition that they could pay 
their subscriptions without distressing their dependents. One 
brother subscribed ninety dollars, his wife ten dollars, to be paid in 
knitting, and his eldest daughter, fourteen years of age, ten dollars 
more, to be paid in the same w r ay. But when I understood that 
this brother was worth but about $800. my heart was touched, and 
I said to him, that I feared he had been excited, and had subscribed 
too much, and I would allow him, if he chose, to lessen his subscrip- 
tion. He replied, i No, brother, I have not subscribed too much. For 
years, I have trembled at the increased corruption of political par- 
ties, which threatens our country with the subversion of all its lib- 
erties. No ray of light or hope has dawned on my mind until the 
subject of a sanctified education was introduced. Here there is 
light, hope, and prospect. What I have subscribed is not all I in- 
tend to do, if the Lord prosper me.' This brother had right views 
of the subject. O that our churches were filled- with such men. 
On the 18th of January, 1843, I finished a tour through the 



DAVID MARKS. 419 

Ohio Northern yearly meeting, which had occupied seven weeks, 
having preached to about sixty churches on the subject of educa- 
tion, and raised a subscription of $4770. Total in the two yearly 
meetings, $10,579.* More than one half of this subscription is 
payable either in cash or its equivalent, and it is probable, accord- 
ing to the usual failures in subscriptions, cost of collection, trans- 
portation, &c, that not more than one-third, or at most, two-fifths 
need be deducted from this sum, to get the amount which will be 
actually returned to the Society over and above all expenses, losses, 
failures, &c. It is also probable that a foundation is laid for increas- 
ed subscriptions every year, not only from those whose hearts God 
may yet enlarge, but also from converts that will be added to our 
churches. Eighteen building lots have been rented by the Institu- 
tion for ten years, to individuals intending to erect small private or 
family boarding houses the present year." 

The following are extracts from his letters written to his com- 
panion during these labors : 

" Fairfield, Pa. Sept. 16. 
* * I have travelled eleven miles this morning, and 
for the first two hours busied myself in reciting the rules of my 
Latin grammar. * * * My health is about as usual, except 
my bronchitis is better, much better, while there is an increase of 
the weakness of my stomach, and of exhaustion upon exercise. I 
feel that I hold my life on a slender thread, and its continuance is 
on probation. Sometimes I think I will return home and attend 
to my health, to the neglect of every thing else. Then a,gain, I 
seem to think I am foolish, and easily alarmed, so that what would 
be nothing to another, affects my weak nerves. But, blessed be 
God, there is a home, sweet home, the eternal rest of the redeem- 
ed, where loved ones will part no more, and where sickness will be 
a stranger. ' * * * 

Sept. 13, I am now through visiting the churches of the Craw- 
ford quarterly meeting. There are eight in all. I have visited 
six. I attended a session of their quarterly meeting last Saturday 
and Sabbath at Deer Creek. My mission was kindly received. I 
preached three times on the Sabbath, and three or four professed 
to be converted Sabbath evening. 

Huron Village, November 28. I am now at the house of 

— , one of the richest men in this part of the country, and till 

seven months since one of the wickedest men. Then a fit of sick- 
ness brought him to repentance, which he has lately confessed for 
the first time. Brother C and myself are, this night, probably 

* A part of this subscription was payable in annual installments for the ten ensuing 
years. 



420 MEMOIRS OP 

the first ministers that were ever invited into his house, and this 
evening probably the first vocal prayer was made under his roof* 
We have had a very good quarterly meeting. [Lake Erie quar- 
terly meeting.] This evening, eleven came to the anxious seat, 
one of whom found peace." ****** 

Toward the last of December, Mr. Marks returned home. He 
had discovered a bloating in his limbs, which a physician, whom he 
consulted, said was merely a result of the debility of his system. 
He wrote : 

" New Haven, Huron Co. Jan. 2, 1843. Through the goodness 
of the Lord, I am in usual health, except the bloating of my limbs, 
which I think increases a little. I hope, however, that it is but the 
result of the inactive state of my system, from which I hope to re- 
cover when my nerves become strengthened. My medicines, I 
think, are producing a good effect. My stomach is certainly much 
stronger, and acidity is almost a stranger to it. The difficulty in 
my throat has entirely disappeared. O, dear companion, thank the 
Lord with me for these favorable omens, and yet let us be prepar- 
ed for whatever chastening the Lord may be pleased to send upon 
us, remembering that whom he loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth 
every son whom he receiveth. 

Yesterday, I preached three times to crowded congregations, and 
had very good seasons. Twenty-two came forward and kneeled 
for prayer, nearly all of whom spoke. Eighteen of these and forty- 
two others [professors] covenanted to kneel and pray three times 
a day for a year. I think a revival will follow. I commenced the 
year by a new consecration of myself to God, and a renewed prom- 
ise to live by my good rules and resolutions. Perhaps this year 
may make an inroad in our happy family, but I trust we are all 
like minute men, and shall be ready when our Lord shall call. 

I am, as usual, busy, very busy. How is it that I always have 
my hands full ? When I think I will do less, and, for the recovery 
of my health, live easy, it is true, as you have often told me, I do 
not know how. Infinite toils are needed in this wicked world, and 
as I see that a little labor here, and a little labor there will do 
good, I feel a sort of uncontrollable, impelling power, urging me 
on, and before I am aware, I am loaded with cares and responsi- 
bilities." 

" Grand township, Marion quarterly meeting, Jan. 5, 1843. * * 
The day after mailing my last letter to you, I went to Bucyrus ; 
and as my limbs were swollen the night before worse than I had 
ever seen them, I called on a physician, to learn whether I had the 
dropsy. In answer to my questions, he said I had no symptoms of 
dropsy, though my debility, if not removed, might, in two or three 
years, terminate in either dropsy or consumption. He said my liv- 



DAVID MARKS. 421 

er is very inactive, and the bloating of my limbs proceeds from the 
inactive state of my blood. He thought the course of medical 
treatment I was pursuing, as directed by Dr. Vanort, would cure 
me. 

January 8. We have had a good quarterly meeting ; my health 
improves. In twelve days and twenty hours, I hope to see my 
dear family in my sweet home ; yet, if disappointment awaits me, 
may the Lord prepare me for it. 

Your more than ever affectionate husband, 

D. Marks." 

About the last of January, Mr. Marks suspended for a few 
months his travels for the Western Reserve Education Society, 
and made arrangements for the commencement of his studies at 
Oberlin. He engaged to preach statedly with four churches, two 
of them eight miles, one of them nine, and the other twenty miles 
from Oberlin, spending with them about three days in a week, in- 
cluding the Sabbath. These churches were to raise $300, per year 
for his support. At the commencement of the term of the Oberlin 
Institute, February 1, 1843, he joined a class, and began anew his 
study of the Latin and Greek languages, preaching according to his 
engagements, occasionally holding other meetings in adjacent neigh- 
borhoods, and superintending the building of a small house. He 
was not only able to go on with his class, but, even under these cir- 
cumstances, his health rapidly improved. Formerly, when he 
travelled, as night came on, he had laid his book aside, except when 
the full moon shone, but now he adopted the expedient of carrying 
a lantern, and studying by its light, as he returned from his even- 
ing meetings. Three months thus passed very happily with him 
in his studies and labors. Indeed, he seemed to enjoy life exceed- 
ingly. He had, in the mean time, from different sections, many and 
urgent calls ; but, with a perseverance unexampled in his former 
history, he was enabled to say " No," a word he often remarked 
he had never before learned to say. One of these, however, not- 
withstanding his strong resolution, made him pause. It was a call 
from the Trustees of Strafford Academy, in New Hampshire, writ- 
ten in their behalf by Elder Place. The Institution was so in- 
volved that it was feared it would be lost. He wrote the following 
reply : 

" Oberlin, 0. March 10, 1843. 
My Dear Brother : — 

Yours of the 27th ult., directed to Chester, was received 

yesterday at this place — the place of my fixed residence for a number of 

years, if I live. I must answer your letter briefly, as I have to attend 

to study ten hours to-day, and besides have to travel eighteen miles to the 

36 



422 MEMOIRS OF 

mouth of the Vermillion river, and preach three hours on baptism accord- 
ing to a previous engagement. 

I am now settled in Oberlin, with a fixed and unalterable determina- 
tion, if the Lord will, to pursue those studies needful for preparing me 
to enter college — then to take a thorough and regular course through 
college and theology. I have not blundered into these purposes. They 
are not the result of any sudden excitement, but of careful, prayerful, 
and sincere examination of duty for years. I take this course from the 
full conviction that I can do far more good, if I should live but a few 
years after its completion, than I could accomplish in any other way. 
* * * I have now only to say, that until I change my views of duty, 
no consideration will induce me to abandon my studies, nor leave them, 
even temporarily, unless I should have evidence that it is to accomplish 
some great work for the public good, which no other man can be found 
to do, under existing circumstances. If I knew that no other man could 
be and would be obtained to save the Institution, I cannot say that I 
would not leave my studies for three or four or even six months to ac- 
complish such a work. But on no other grounds would I listen to any 
proposals, nor to any inducements whatever. I am poor, and probably 
always shall be — and should be, if I had an income of $2000, a year, 
but mere pecuniary offers would not induce me to go. If the Institution 
has been, and now is, conducted on right and Christian principles, I 
have no doubt that I have arguments and measures that would clear it 
from its embarrassments, and set it on a sure foundation in from three to 
six months. * # * * I would not think a moment of the great, 
and trying, and painful self-denial of leaving my dear family in my fee- 
ble health to go to your aid, were it not from fear that the Institution 
will not be saved. I entreat that every measure may be taken that is 
possible, and that no dependence be made upon me, except as a last re- 
sort. I would rather not go at $2000, a year if I could avoid it, and 
not sin against God and my beloved connexion, for I have an object in 
view higher than any money concern." After making several propo- 
sitions, he added : " After all, I dare not say that I would go were all 
these conditions fulfilled. My studies and my age — my health, the 
wants of the Western Reserve Education Society, and the churches to 
which I preach, make me hesitate, and close in haste, with a fervent 
prayer that God will direct." # # # 

In the mean time, brother J. J. Butler, Principal of Clinton Sem- 
inary, N. Y. wrote him thus : " If you can save Strafford Academy 
by three months, six months, or a year's labor, I think you ought to 
engage in its behalf. And I am inclined to suppose you might. 
Could you place the pecuniary affairs of your Seminary in Ohio in 
such a train, that you could safely leave them, you would accom- 
plish a great and good work in rescuing the Institution at Strafford. 
I hope to hear that you comply with their request, provided you 
can do it without thereby sacrificing the Ohio Institution. You 
must be pretty busily employed with all your cares and responsi- 
bilities. You need wonderful faculties to do justice to them all." 
Soon afterwards, Mr. Marks received the following : 



DAVID MARKS. 428 

u Strafford Centre, N. H. April 17, 1843. 
My Dear Brother Marks : — 

Yours of the 16th ult. has been duly received and laid before 
our Trustees. At their meeting held on the 15th inst. I was authorized 
to answer your letter, and present to you the views and feelings of our 
Board. * # * * O, brother Marks, w r e do not wish to flatter you. 
God forbid. The sole and only cause why we have troubled you with 
our request, is, that we do believe that, under God, you are the only 
man that we have any knowledge of in our denomination, that can save 
our literary Institution. 

The Catholics have at last formally invaded New England. A large, 
expensive, and splendid edifice is now in progress at Worcester, Mass., 
forty miles from Boston, for a college of Jesuits ! ! and yet nine-tenths 
of the numerous host of Free-will Baptists in this state are asleep — 
asleep on the subject of Christian education, while the enemy, in solid 
phalanx, will soon overtake them, when it will be too late for repen- 
tance. 0, brother, I say it in the fear of God, that while I write this, 
streaming tears flow in torrents from my weeping eyes, and my prayer 
is, that God may direct us all in the way of duty. I am reading D' Au- 
bigne's History of the Reformation. It is a rich repast, and had it not 
been for a sanctified education, in the hand of God, the world would have 
slept on till this time in Papal darkness, and you, and I, and millions of 
others, have finally gone to hell. We believe that the call we make up- 
on you is from God, and that his holy hand is in it. * * * * * 

Our wish is that you become our sole agent. do come, do, do, for 
God's sake, come to our help. 1 do not say this to move your passions. 
The whole truth is summed up in these few words — the Board of Trus- 
tees believe, beyond a doubt, that you alone can save the Institution, and 
if you cannot come, no other man can do it. * . * * * 

Yours, in the best of bonds, E. Place." 

This letter was an appeal that Mr. Marks had not in the power 
of his heart to withstand. He laid the subject before his teacher, 
and the President of the college, and asked their advice. They 
thought it unfortunate for him at his time of life to fall back a year 
in his studies ; but conceded, that probably under existing circum- 
stances it was his duty to go to New Hampshire. After this con- 
sultation, he wrote immediately to the Trustees an affirmative an- 
swer, and sent on a list of appointments. He wrote also a very 
pithy appeal to the New Hampshire churches, which he closed with 
a brief outline of the plan of his agency. He said in this article, 
" Don't forget that I am to preach — not merely lecture, but preach 
the blessed gospel, that this is the only part I have any thing to do 
with in relation to education." 

There were at this time three young Free-will Baptist ministers 
pursuing a course of study at Oberlin, in w r hose welfare Mr. Marks 
felt much solicitude, which they ever affectionately reciprocated. 
On the morning of the day of his departure, he received the follow- 
ing note from one of them. 



424 MEMOIRS OF 

# # # # c< Permit me, dear brother Marks, to charge you to be 
careful of your health. You are aware that we have reason to fear that 
the arduous task before you may prove too much for one in your state, 
and with your strength of constitution. As far as human observation 
can go, there seems to me to be a long chain of reasons why you should 
be spared to the Free-will Baptist church yet many years. Those of 
us in this place, who belong to that branch of the church, cannot but 
feel deeply solicitous. An educated and holy ministry we must have, 
or we shall cease to exert a saving influence as a denomination. You 
know how strongly the tide of opposition sets against us, who have 
come to this place, and how necessary to us, under God, are your 
strength and influence. May God have you in his holy keeping is the 
prayer of your brother in Christ, H. E. Whipple." 

Tuesday, June 6, he bade adieu to his family, expecting to be 
absent four months. He wrote : — 

" Boston, Mass. Monday, June 12. I reached this city, 764 miles 
from Oberlin, after travelling fifty-seven hours and twenty-two minutes, 
and stopping thirty hours and forty-eight minutes. Sabbath morning, I 
preached in Charlestown to Elder Jackson's congregation, and had an 
excellent time. In the afternoon, I preached to the Free-will Baptist 
church in Boston, and had a far better season than in the morning ; in- 
deed, one of my best. About two hundred and fifty were present, and 
they seemed deeply and solemnly impressed. 

I am in good health and most excellent spirits. I have been quite 
happy to-day, though affection to my much loved family has forced a 
few sighs and some tears from me. Farewell. 

Your ever affectionate husband, David Marks." 

On entering upon his labors, he found obstacles of which he had 
no idea, and his prospects of success seemed dark indeed. He 
wrote : — 

" Northwood, June 19, 1843. 
My Dearly Beloved Wife : — 

Happy should I be, could I write j r ou good tidings — tidings 
which would comfort that heart which is so worthy of consolation ; but 
you have learned that ' man is born to affliction, as the sparks that 
fly upwards' — that this is not the place of our rest. The most 
painful news I have, and which saddens me because it must sad- 
den my dearest earthly friend, is, that I have been sick, quite 
that when I reached Strafford, I kept my bed, except when I went to 
my meetings. However, I soon got better, for I could sleep from ten 
to thirteen hours per day, and have ever since, as I find this the best 
medicine I can take. I never before slept so much with such perfect 
ease, insomuch that sometimes I have been almost alarmed on account 
of my stupidity. 

Another subject, and one which I do not know how to approach so as 
to prevent paining you, is, my agency. To tell you the plain truth, and 
to tell you the worst at once, I have now little doubt that it must and 
will prove an entire failure, by which I shall lose my time, and I think 



DAVID MARKS. 425 

all my expenses, except my mere travelling expenses. 1. Millerism has 
done much, and so far as that is believed, I can do nothing. 2. My ap- 
pointments are in a busy time for farmers. 3. There is a general dis- 
like to the Trustees running in debt to build a boarding house. 4. 
There is great complaint on account of the location. 5. There is a 
great dislike to agents — a supposition that they have very high wages, 
and that former agents have run off with the money, and many have 
said for a long time, * I'll never give any thing more to an agent.' 6. 
Deep rooted prejudices have settled in many hearts against the Strafford 
Institution, they know not why ; so that while I can carry all before 
me as to education, and move my assemblies to a flood of tears, I 
can make no impression in behalf of Strafford Academy. I find much 
more sympathy for myself than for the institution. I think some 
of cutting my agency short, and returning home sooner than I in- 
tended. I shall strive to get a meeting of the Trustees and ask advice. 
I have now told you all my trouble, because I promised to do so ; but 
it has been hard work ; yet I know you can bear up under afflictions, 
even better than I do. * * * 

Your affectionate husband, David Marks." 

Mr. Marks prosecuted his labors amidst these and other dis- 
couragements. So inveterate were the prejudices against the ob- 
ject of his agency, that many would not go to hear a word on this 
subject. Others that out of respect to him, would listen to a lec- 
ture, were careful to leave their money at home, lest their feel- 
ings should be touched, and they should be induced to give some- 
thing. In some instances, however, their precaution only gave 
them trouble, as their consciences would not let them leave till they 
had borrowed money and contributed. Hoping to arouse the 
churches to a sense of their duty, Mr. Marks resorted to the expe- 
dient of publishing a weekly reports of his labors in a tabular form, 
giving the names of the churches, the number of members, number 
of hearers, sums subscribed, and sums paid, to which he added re- 
marks either of censure or commendation. The following was in: 
connection with his seventh weekly report : 

" One cause of the little interest felt in education, is manifest by the 
following note which was attached to my carriage by a man that listen- 
ed to my discourse ten minutes and went off apparently angry. I copy 
perfectly verbatim, letter for letter, <5fC. 

4 Jesus Christ tasted death for every Man it is not for you to Say who shall Be Saved 
you told Me that you came to Preach the doctrine of Jesus Christ Jesus Christ Never 
Sent any man out A Begin for Money to Raise up Ministers, Doctors Nor Lawyers, Nor 
Judges Nor divils if you want Money you go to work and em it what money we have 
hear we want for our own yoose Bee off yoor Self.' 

Now, though no Christian would exhibit the spirit of the above wri- 
ting, yet its principal sentiments are practically acted out by a large 
portion of church members. The great error contained in this paper, 
is a common and extensive one. It consists in the assumption that great 
principles are not obligatory, and to be carried out, unless God has point- 
ed out precisely the thousand best methods which would arise in differ- 
36* 



426 MEMOIKS OF 

ent ages and nations, and specified these very methods by definite names 
in all the dialects of earth. God has enjoined great principles through- 
out the whole Bible on every question which can interest man. In re- 
lation to education, the principle enjoined is, that we should ' study,' 
c learn,' ' increase in learning' in every thing visible and invisible which 
God has. created, giving to every part of his works that proportion of at- 
tention and affection which its value demands. Hence it is an undeni- 
able inference, that well regulated academies and colleges, being among 
the best methods of obedience to God in relation to the study of several 
parts of his works and truths, are well pleasing to God. They are ex- 
pressly designed to develope our faculties, and train our intellects, so as 
to fit us by a knowledge of the works and truths of God to do good here, 
and finally sit down with Christ in his throne, judge angels, and judge 
the world. But if words, instead of principles, are to be our rules of ac- 
tion, then we should abandon temperance, mission, and Bible societies, 
family prayer, Sabbath schools, prayer, conference, church, monthly, 
quarterly, and yearly meetings, because their names are not found in the 
Bible ; and as Jesus Christ never, in so many words, said any thing 
against drinking whiskey, rum, gin, brandy, &c, nor against circuses, 
horse races, theatres, houses of ill fame, free masonry, and slavery, 
all opposition to these and a thousand other kindred vices not known in 
the Scriptures by the names under which they are designated among us, 
should cease asunscriptural." 

Mr. Marks wrote to his companion as follows : 

" Enfield, July 3, 1843. My health, praise God, is, for me, extreme- 
ly and astonishingly good. I preach and speak publicly five or six 
hours daily, seemingly with as much ease as the moving of a clock. I 
have got my soul baptized into my mission, so that I am more success- 
ful than I feared I should be. My meetings are attended with much weep- 
ing, and often with powerful feelings. * * # # 

Manchester, N. EL July 10. I am, through the blessing of God, in 
excellent health, though last week I preached thirteen sermons, averag- 
ing two hours each, and yesterday three more in brother Cilley's church. 
######## 

Dover, July 24. A week ago to-night, I met with the Trustees at 
Strafford, and obtained facts which will help me in my agency. Mat- 
ters, so far as I can learn, have been managed well. I have now little 
doubt that I shall save the Institution, though I may have to come a three 
months' tour again. 

You wrote that brother N and other western brethren think the 

remarks in the weekly reports of my agency are too severe, and calcu- 
lated to make me enemies, &c. Brother N. and our western brethren 
can scarcely form an idea of the disorganizing stuff and want of princi- 
ple, which have called for the merited severity of my reports. My 
opinion is that they are doing much good, and that though some assem- 
blies may have been smaller on this account, a much greater number 
have been larger. My success has been increasing from the commence- 
ment of my reports in the Star. I aim to be just to right principles, 
let the immediate effect be what it may. Great principles are concern- 
ed. I have the approbation of our most intelligent men in my severity, 



DAVID MARKS. 427 

still there are good men that think it injudicious. The reports are 
arousing a good deal of sensibility. Thribble is paid down in a week 
now to what there was when I began. This shows that conscience is 
aroused. * * # I think the Institution will be redeemed. 

But if it is lost, there will arise a re-action that will produce more prin- 
ciple as to education. My success I do not measure by dollars. Very 
many converts are made to right principles. I have reason to believe 
that very few go from my meetings with anything like those feelings 
with which they came. The seed is abundant and will produce fruit. 

I rejoice to hear of the good preaching and spiritual times at Oberlin. 
May God preserve me to be blessed by such seasons there. I greatly 
rejoice to hear, my precious wife, of their influence on your own mind, 
and of the increase of your confidence in God. 0, I thank Heaven for 
this. I am exceedingly interested in the account you wrote me of Pro- 
fessor Finney's Pastoral lectures on the qualifications of ministers' 
wives. Brother Burr thinks your report would do good in the Star. If 
you have any objection to its publication, write me. # # * 
Farewell. I remain as ever, 

Your affectionate and confiding husband — a happy one indeed. 

D. Marks." 

" Lisbon, Monday, Aug. 23. I hope, my dear wife, you have grace to 
reconcile you to any mere earthly affliction, that God shall permit to 
come upon you, knowing that there is not a sorrow which God does not 
design to work for our good. This letter will cause you mvwelcome 
pangs ; but let me assure you that I am happy in the Lord, and cheer- 
fully resigned though I am mostly confined to my bed by a severe at- 
tack of inflammatory rheumatism. 

Last Tuesday, August 22, I started in a moderate rain to go twenty- 
three miles to Gorham : but having a covered carriage, a thick buffalo 
skin, and a thickly lined borrowed cloak, I did not anticipate the least 
danger ; but on the way, the rain increased to a shower : my buffalo 
skin got wet perfectly through, and my clothes damp, but not much wet, 
and the rain soaked through my carriage top. Though my health was 
as usual, I stopped, thinking it not safe for me to attempt to reach my 
next appointment. The next day toward night, I felt some rheumatic 
affection about my right knee. Thursday it increased, and was accom- 
panied with swelling. I went, however, to Concord, Vermont, thirteen 
miles, and preached sitting. Friday, I went to Lisbon and preached, 
but I passed a night of great distress. I felt now that I was actually 
sick for the first time in the absence of my dear companion, who, under 
God, has blessed me and comforted me so much in my scenes of sick- 
ness and nervous prostration. I imagined erysipelas — white swelling — 
that I should be a cripple for life, or that mortification must set in and 
death follow — that I should never see my dear family any more in this 
world. [You know my nervous hob- goblins so well that these things 
will not frighten you.] This night, I had two watchers attending con- 
stantly upon me, brushing, rubbing, fanning, &c. At four o'clock in 
the morning, I sent for a physician of some celebrity residing in Lisbon, 
a member of the church and a man of prayer. Saturday 1 was some 
better, and Sabbath both the physician and my friends would have me 
carried out to preach. I spoke to about four hundred people. The 



428 MEMOIRS OF 

physician has visited me three times a day. I have now little pain, and 
I hope to be able to leave safely the last of the week. My right limb is 
almost useless, and I have to get about with crutches. My symptoms 
are all favorable, but you know a swelled joint demands that patience 
have her perfect work. # # # 

September 2. Thanks to our Heavenly Father, yesterday I was 
strengthened to get up from my sick-bed and ride forty-eight miles, and 
this without, doing me any injury. A young man came with me to as- 
sist me, and I went to bed twice by the way. With care and prudence, 
I hope now to meet my appointments. 

September 18. My health is still improving, though I can walk or 
stand very little ; but my preaching powers, thank Heaven, never seem- 
ed so little fatigued by immense labor. I have a great deal to do, and I 
have to labor hard to take what sleep nature requires. The excitement 
occasioned by my longing for sweet home and the bosom of my family, 
as I draw near the time of my return, is so intense that I find it difficult 
to sleep." 

Mr. Marks was in the habit of holding correspondence with his 
little favorite Julia, who in her turn often dictated very amusing re- 
plies. The following, written about this period, is a specimen of 
his letters to her. 

" My dear little precious daughter Julia Marilla : — I was so glad to get 
your sweet little letter that I cried — shed tears on it. I want to see you so 
much that I weep now. I can't help it. O how my heartbeats at the 
thought of you. I feel as though I could almost fly to see you. 
O, 1 was very glad to hear that you are a good girl, and that 
you pray daily, and pray for me. If you could see me, you would 
cry to see how lame I am. I walk with crutches. you would 
pity me much if you could see me. You know your * dear papa' was 
to be gone sixteen Mondays. [She always reckoned the time of his ab- 
sence from home by the number of Mondays.] Well, precious pet, they 
are nearly all past. In two more Mondays and five days, I hope 
to see you in Cleveland. If mamma thinks best will you come with 
her to meet me ? Good by, dear daughter. 

Your Papa." 

The following were among the remarks, appended to Mr. 
Marks' concluding weekly report. 

" Near the close of my agency, a report went out that I was to re- 
ceive thirty-three per cent, on all the subscriptions I obtained. Some 
brethren of good judgment (in cases where they had no bias,) actually 
believed that the Trustees, with all their personal embarrassments for 
the Institution, were about to give me seven hundred dollars for thir- 
teen weeks' work, and actually used this as an argument to prevent in- 
dividuals from coming to my appointments, or giving any thing to the 
object of my agency. Hoping to modify, in some measure, the preju- 
dices of such as have not enough of the charity which thinketh no evil, 
I will state a few facts, leaving them to judge how much real founda- 
tion there has been for this report, and for slanders of the above cast, 



DAVID MARKS. 429 

which the devil always puts in circulation against benevolent Institu- 
tions. 

I have raised a subscription of $2006,74, of which $863,22 were 
paid besides $60, collected on old subscriptions. The raising and col- 
lecting of these sums cost me as follows : — 1600 miles travel by public 
conveyance, 1518 miles by private carriage, 138 sermons, averaging 
two hours and four minutes each, 394 hours mental labor, close appli- 
cation to accounts, &c. If thirty miles travel by private carriage — 
one hundred miles by public conveyance — eight hours close mental la- 
bor, 'and one sermon of one hour's length, are each enough for a day's 
labor on an average, I have rendered 349 days service for the Institu- 
tion in four and a half months.* For this service I have received but 
$78,97 over and above what I have paid out for mere travelling and 
agency expenses, or suffered in losses unavoidably resulting directly 
from my service, not including wear of clothes, time, or family expens- 
es. I make not this statement for complaint, for I am satisfied, not only 
that the Trustees gave me all they should have given me, but also that 
in this respect I have fared better than agents generally, excepting those 
of older and wealthier denominations." 

As Mr. Marks was about leaving Strafford, the following reso- 
lution passed by the Board of Trustees was handed him : 

" Resolved, That the exertion, zeal, and untiring industry of El- 
der David Marks, in his agency in procuring subscriptions and dona- 
tions for the Strafford Academy, entitle him to the thanks and highest 
regards of the Trustees for the diligent and faithful manner in which 
he has conducted his agency. Daniel Winkle y, 

Secretary of the Board of Trustees, fro tern.'' 1 

Mr. Marks arrived at Oberlin, October 6th, in very feeble health, 
having had another attack of sickness in Boston, which, during 
nearly his whole journey, obliged him to accept the almost con- 
stant care of a brother who was accompanying him to Ohio. 
When he was in Albany he had a very interesting interview with 
Mr. Charles T. Torrey, (the recent martyr in the cause of human- 
ity,) and purchased of him several thousand copies of the second 
number of the Monthly Patriot, containing an article written by 
himself, entitled, " War of Slavery on Northern commerce and 
agriculture." This article he read aloud on the steam-boat (having 
previously obtained permission) during its passage from Buffalo to 
Cleveland. There were several slaveholders on board, though 
he was not then aware of it, and so much excitement was produc- 
ed that for a time he viewed himself in danger. 

His engagements for the Western Reserve Education Society 
allowed him no time for rest. He had already one hundred and 
twelve appointments notified in the Ohio and Pennsylvania church- 
es, covering the ground he went over the preceding autumn, which 

* This period includes the time spent in going to New Hampshire, and returning ; also, 
the time spent in writing previous to his departure from Oberlin. 



430 MEMOIRS OF 

would occupy his time till the 12th of January. Besides, he was 
depending on the avails of his agency then due him, (and for 
which he had consented to wait till it could be collected from the 
subscription,) for the immediate support of himself and family. 
The Education Society was also in pressing want of funds, as they 
had commenced a large building for the Seminary. They had re- 
fused the charter granted them by the Ohio Legislature on ac- 
count of a clause prohibiting them from extending equal privileges 
to the people of color, and had directed Mr. Marks, as their agent, 
to circulate among the churches a petition, requesting the repeal of 
the restriction.* He thought, under the circumstances, that it was 
duty to go forward ; but his toils were excessively fatiguing. The 
season, it was said by the oldest inhabitants, was the most unpleas- 
ant of any that had been known since the settlement of the coun- 
try. It rained almost daily for several weeks, and the travelling 
through the deep mud of the clay roads of Ohio, can only be con- 
ceived by those who saw them. The Society fitted out a two horse 
wagon and a man to accompany their agent. But on account of 
the state of the roads, it was impossible for him to reach several 
of his appointments, and at a number of those he did reach, he 
found small congregations, the people not expecting him, suppos- 
ing that he could not travel. Still he toiled on, riding sometimes 
till twelve or one o'clock at night, doing what he could, till the ear- 
ly part of January, when he found himself so worn down, and so 
ill, that it was an utter impossibility to fill his remaining appoint- 
ments. He now engaged a brother to go in his stead, and resign- 
ed himself to rest.f But repose failed to invigorate his system as 
it had formerly done. Its elasticity seemed gone. His limbs bloat- 
ed badly, and it caused him much distress even to walk across his 
room. After the lapse of a few days, he gave up nearly all hopes 
of recovery, yet he was very calm and happy in his mind. He 
wrote several farewell letters to his relatives and friends, from 
some of which the following few extracts are taken. 

[To Miss M Turner, Arlington, Vt.] 

" Oberlin, Feb. 28, 1844. 
My dear Aunt : — 

# # I am now confined mostly to my room — have 
given up all my studies, and do not often go out even to meeting. 
What little strength I have, is occupied mostly in arranging my papers, 
so that should I not recover, they may occasion my dear companion as 
little trouble as possible. Mrs. Marks is strong in the faith that I shall 

* The Legislature, at their ensuing session, granted them such a charter as they de- 
sired. 

t This was the last of Mr. Marks' labors for the Western Reserve Education Society. 
The Institution at Chester has continued to prosper. During the term closing Nov. 
1845, it had 100 students. 



DAVID MARKS. 481 

yet get well. I am not. But my mind is calm, and I have peace like 
a river. 'Forme to live is Christ; to die would he gain.' I have 
looked death in the face, surveyed its terrors, carefully reviewed my 
past life in view of my approaching dissolution, and think I am not mis- 
taken in saying, ' All is well .' While now my labors are closing up 
and coming in review preparatory to my final change, it is to me a great 
satisfaction, that I feel a sweet consciousness of having acted on the 
principle of entire consecration to God — that neither the love of honor, 
popularity, nor interest, have ever influenced me to withhold needful 
truths, nor to daub with untempered mortar, crying, l Peace, peace, 
where God has not spoken peace.' * * O how sweet it is to feel 
that God — the everlasting God — is my Father, my Friend, and my ever- 
lasting portion. Surely in Him there is fullness of joy, and at his 
right hand are pleasures forevermore. # * # 

I have means to be comfortable for a few months : if health does not 
amend, I must then subsist on the kindness of friends, of whom I have 
many, and they will not suffer me to want, after I feel that I need to 
ask help ; and as to this 1 shall feel no delicacy, believing I have ren- 
dered faithful service to the public these twenty- three years, much of 
w r hich yet remains temporally unrewarded. I may recover. If so, I 
intend by Divine permission to go through college, and a regular course 
in theology. 

Oberlin is the most interesting spot I have ever seen. Its professors 
are the most humble, and its influence the most holy and effectual for 
the searching and sanctifieation of the heart of any Institution with 
which I have been acquainted. Great is the grace here manifested, and 
its influence is being felt to the end of Christendom. # * # 
Yours affectionately, D. Marks." 

[To a lady relative, nearly ninety years of age.] 

"Oberlin, Feb. 29, 1844. 
My Dear Aunt : — 

The feelings of my heart prompt me to w r rite you, especially 
as it now appears quite doubtful whether we ever again meet in this 
world, and quite probable, when a few more days are gone, that we 
shall meet amid all the realities and scenes of another state of existence. 
Your advanced age gives strong assurance that the days, which Job de- 
clared were 4 like a weaver's shuttle,' will soon be forever numbered, 
and the ties which bind you to earth be dissolved no more to be renewed. 
True, you have lived, even since the infirmities of age came upon you, 
to see many of the young, the healthy and the gay, go to their long 
home before you. Yet, let it not be forgotten, that it has been said of 
the oldest man that ever lived — ■* He died' — nor that it will yet be thus 
said of us all. What a multitude of friends and acquaintances you 
have lived to see go down to the grave. how many funeral solemni- 
ties you have witnessed. Another thing which inclines me to invite 
your attention to this subject, is, I feel that I too have but a few days to 
stay in this world. Pray, dear aunt, be not grieved, if I inquire, ' Are 
you prepared 1 Is your peace made with God 1 Have you been born 
of the Holy Spirit V Surely, it is our privilege to know what our state 
is, for the word of God has said ; ' He that helieveth hath the witness 



432 MEMOIRS OP 

in himself/ and again, ' Prove your own selves whether ye be in the 
faith. Now we should not be commanded to prove ourselves, if it were 
impossible for us to do this. Again, the beloved disciple speaks of our 
knowing that we have passed from death unto life, and he could never 
have spoken in this manner, had it not been our privilege to know our 
own state. A multitude of Scripture evidences might be brought to 
the "same point, but these are sufficient, and prove unanswerably, not 
only that it is our privilege, bat our duty, to determine with 
certainty our true character before we go to the judgment. O then, 
permit me to entreat you, as a child would entreat a parent, as a friend 
would entreat another dear to his heart, and as a watchman of the cross 
should entreat the souls, before whom he must soon give an account of his 
stewardship, don't delay. O, for heaven's sake, do not trust to mere moral- 
ity or even the form of godliness, and to the circumstance that you love the 
good, and are a friend to religion. Don't rest without a witness that 
your heart is changed, and that you have something more than a mere 
hope — which may be ' as the spider's web in the giving up of the ghost.' 
get one that will be like an anchor cast into a firm rock. It is for 
you, if you will only seek it. Dear aunt, do seek it — seek it now — seek 
it earnestly — seek it perseveringly— seek it with the whole heart — seek 
it as an invaluable prize, an indescribable treasure, as that which is 
worth more than friends and wealth, or indeed more than all earth itself. 
Many have found a new hope at an age greater than yours. Yes, some 
sinners have been converted, and become like little children at the age 
of one hundred years. May we be prepared to meet in heaven. 

Yours affectionately, D . Marks . ' ' 

[To one of his brothers-in-law.] 

" Oberlin, March 2, 1844. 
My dear brother : — 

* * I certainly have great reasons and very strong ones for 
attachment to your family, nor have they been lessened by any want of 
courtesy or brotherly kindness on your part. Though you do not pro- 
fess religion, my visits in your family have always been pleasant and 
are remembered with delight. Only one deduction has pained my heart, 
and this concerns your duty to God and your eternal interest. Being 
fully assured that here our time is short, and that in a few fleeting days, 
we shall witness the crumbling of every earthly tie, and the dissolution 
of every worldly hope, O how can I refrain from anxiety. Surely you 
would not think me too forward or officious, should I see you exposed to 
be burned to death in a flaming house, even though I should be greatly 
excited, and alarmed, and use even ultra efforts to save you. But this 
is only a faint illustration. Permit me to say, dear brother, that I am 
sure, if you have not a well founded hope in the dear Redeemer, 
you are in infinitely greater danger — in danger of a death that never 
dies — of a loss which is irreparable. O the loss of the soul ! Who 
can describe it ? When we lose friends we may regain others ; and 
when we lose property we may accumulate more, or even reconcile our- 
selves to poverty. But when the soul is lost, all is lost ! — lost forever ! 
— lost irrecoverably ! — and with it, all that the heart can desire. O my 
brother, I would not pain you unnecessarily. The physician, in ampu- 



DAVID MARKS. 433 

tating a limb, don't mean to inflict pain — that is not hi^ object ; but he 
would benefit his patient, and he acts from the full conviction that the 
amputation had better go on, notwithstanding the circumstance that pain 
is its inevitable attendant. So I feel, that, as a brother, if aught of be- 
nevolence rules in my heart, now while my health is gone, and I stand 
rejoicing on the brink of the eternal world, I must solemnly warn you, 
that except you are born of the Spirit, there is ceaseless sorrow before 
you — that there is a fire never to be quenched, where all will be lost ! 
— forever lost ! O the loss of the soul ! Who can imagine its cease- 
less woes ! a night beyond which no day will ever dawn — pain without 
pleasures, sorrows without joys, where the sweets of society and of 
sympathy will never cheer the heart — where there will be an ocean of 
pain without one drop of ease, and an eternity of woes without any 
relief ! 

* Tempests of angry fire will roll, 
And beat in one eternal storm 
Upon the naked soul !" 

Omy brother, fly to Christ; fly now. Don't delay. God i hates putting off.' 
We know not our time. ' As the bird is caught in the snare, and the fishes 
are taken in an evil net, so the sons of men are snared in an evil time 
when it falleth suddenly upon them.' Let us then be ready. O that I 
may hear that you are a decided Christian ' before I go hence to be here 
no more.' Pray write to me, and let me know your state of mind. Tell 
me all about it. It would be a satisfaction to me. I can but pray for 
you daily : I trust your dear wife does the same, and I know your sis- 
ter Marilla does. Do you pray for yourself ? Don't be offended at my 
importunity. The case is an urgent one. # # # 

Yours affectionately, D. Marks." 

Mr. Marks, for some time, refused to employ a physician, believ- 
ing that his efforts would be unavailing, but at length, for the grat- 
ification of his anxious family, he consented. Medicine appeared 
to have the desired effect, his system again seemed invigorated, 
his bloating subsided, and finally disappeared. In the mean time, 
as spring opened, he busied himself in the cultivation of his gar- 
den as his strength would permit, an employment which benefited 
him, and in which he greatly delighted. But, with his returning 
strength, though he did not feel able to resume his studies, he could 
not be restrained from his much loved work of preaching Christ. 
Accordingly he resumed his labors in some of the churches with 
which he was preaching previous to his tour to New Hampshire, 
and also organized a church in Henrietta, four miles from Oberlin, 
to which he preached every fourth Sabbath. During the spring 
he commenced an acquaintance with Mr. Edmund B. Fairfield, 
a member of the Faculty of Oberlin College, which soon ripened 
into strong Christian friendship. He was a Calvinistic Baptist li- 
censed minister, and first called on Mr. Marks for the purpose of 
conversing on the subject of free-communion. Not long afterwards, 
he united with the Free-will Baptists. 
37 



434 MEMOIRS OF 

May 25, Mr. Marks attended the Lake Erie quarterly meeting 
at North Amherst, and preached on the subject of sanctification, 
from 1 Thess. 5:23. He introduced his subject by saying, " Had 
all the evil spirits in the universe held a three hundred and sixty-five 
days' council in pandemonium, they could not possibly have suc- 
ceeded better in their designs, than to have invented measures to 
establish the doctrine in the church of Jesus Christ that the blood 
of Christ never cleanses a soul from all sin in this life." In June, 
he attended the Ohio Northern yearly meeting. This body now 
passed some very spirited resolutions on the subject of slavery. 
Hitherto they had not taken a very high stand in the cause of ab- 
olition. Mr. Marks was appointed one of the delegates to the 
General Conference to meet the ensuing fall in Plainfield in the 
eastern part of New York. He declined the appointment, still 
thinking his recovery doubtful. His acceptance was urged on the 
ground that if he did not recover, he ought to go and meet his breth- 
ren once more, and as a substitute was elected in case of his fail- 
ure, it was insisted that his appointment should remain. 

In the latter part of June, he had a public discussion on the sub- 
ject of baptism with Dr. Shaffer, a Methodist presiding elder. 
Several months previous, in compliance with the urgent request of 
a number of ministers, he had consented to meet Dr. Shaffer, who, 
as he was informed, devoted a considerable part of his time to preach- 
ing on this subject, advocating the position, that immersion was not 
baptism, and had challenged the Baptist world to meet him. The 
discussion was held in the Methodist meeting house in New Haven, 
Huron Co. and continued five days. Mr. Marks was assisted by 
brother E. B. Fairfield of Oberlin, a liberty he requested on ac- 
count of his health. Fifteen Methodist and nineteen Free-will 
Baptist preachers were among the attendants. Among the novel 
positions of Dr. Shaffer was the following : " That as baptism is 
the answer of a good conscience, the candidate should have his 
choice as to the mode of administration ; but that immersion is 
not a scriptural mode of Christian baptism, and that therefore he 
would not immerse those applicants who desire to be baptized in 
this way, but would send them to his brother ministers." Previous 
to the discussion, it was agreed that no public expression of the 
congregation should be taken. Some idea of its merits, may be 
formed from the following article, which appeared in the Morning 
Star. It was written to the Trustees of the Free-will Baptist 
Book Concern, and was signed by twelve ministers. 

u Dear Brethren : — The undersigned, having been in attendance dur- 
ing the discussion on baptism between brother Marks and Dr. Shaffer, 
which commenced on the 24th inst. and was continued five days, take this 
method of expressing to you our fullest conviction, that Baptist senti- 



DAVID MARKS. 435 

merits have been triumphantly sustained, both as it respects the subjects 
of baptism, and the manner of its administration. We are also of the 
opinion, that it would greatly subserve the interests of true religion, to 
have the principal arguments used in this debate, published in a book 
form for the use of the Christian public. Such a work is needed by 
our denomination, especially in the new states, where our sentiments 
are continually assailed by the crudest objections, and most shameless 
dogmatisms. The arguments adduced by our brother Marks, are, in 
our judgment, admirably suited to the times, in view of the various and con- 
flicting sentiments entertained respecting the design, mode, and subjects 
of baptism. There are, indeed, many valuable works before the public, 
treating on these points, but in no one of them do we find any consider- 
able portion of the arguments used on this occasion. Ever since this 
discussion was first contemplated, brother Marks has been actively en- 
gaged in collecting his materials for debate, so that no point of attack 
has been left undefended. A very considerable share of his matter is 
already in manuscript, having been copied from Pedo-Baptists lexicog- 
raphers, commentators, authors of the highest distinction, whose numer- 
ous concessions, of themselves, form an unanswerable argument in fa- 
vor of Baptist sentiments. In collecting these materials, brother Marks 
has been assisted by our gifted and worthy brother Fairfield, a tutor in 
Oberlin college, and has been enabled to collect an amount of valuable 
testimony in favor of immersion far exceeding our most sanguine ex- 
pectations. # # # rphg arguments used in this debate, 
should you publish them, will be found to contain the statements of the 
ablest critics and lexicographers, on all the varieties of sentiment enter- 
tained on the subject of baptism, with accurate references to the books 
where they may be found, so that one may have within a compass of 
some four hundred pages, substantially, the arguments of the learned 
Carson, of Pengilly and Hinton, the valuable arguments of Camp- 
bell with McAuley, and more recently with Dr. Rice, besides many oth- 
er excellent works of less magnitude. * * * But the 
greatest value of these materials, arises from the fact that they are so 
simplified as to bring the most elaborate arguments drawn from classic 
usage, and other learned disquisitions within the comprehension of the 
general reader." 

Mr. Marks greatly enjoyed this discussion, but the mental effort 
much reduced his strength, and he never was able to comply with 
the many requests to prepare the work for publication. On his re- 
turn to Oberlin, he received the following, in reply to the resignation 
he had tendered of his agency for the Strafford Institution. 

11 Dear Brother Marks : — The account you gave us of your health, and 
the resignation of your agency, has filled us with no small concern. 
* * * It is the settled opinion of the Board, that your visit to 
New Hampshire, and your powerful effort as our agent, was of God, 
and that the hand of God was manifest in that effort, and further, that 
if you could find it to be duty to come with your family to New Eng- 
land and reside for a term of time with us, that you would soon free 
our Seminary of learning, that God has so manifestly owned and bless- 
ed with the out-pouring of his Spirit. And further, we believe that if 



36 MEMOIRS OF 

our Institution is ever saved, it will appear to have been done by your ef- 
forts. At the last meeting of our Trustees, they voted and directed me 
to write to you, that they cannot give you up, if God will, in answer to 
prayer, restore your health. I remarked to the Board, that I was will- 
ing to write, and would do it cheerfully, but that I believed you had 
made up your mind that you had done all you could for us, or you 
would not have sent us your resignation. All this, however, would 
avail nothing ; write I must, or some other one of the Board would, for 
they are determined to hear from you before they appoint any other one 
as agent. Do, brother, pray over this subject, and come, if your health 
will permit. We do not entertain a doubt of your success, for the ob- 
jections that lay in your way, have by you and the above named com- 
mittee, been removed from the minds of all who have received the intel- 
ligence. * # O that God's will, and not ours, may be done in 
this thing. Yours in love, E. Place." 

Iii reply, Mr. Marks recommended brother E. B. Fairfield as 
liis successor in the agency, and he was afterwards employed by 
the Trustees. 

During the months of July and August, Mr. Marks remained 
mostly in Oberlin, except on the Sabbath, his health, meanwhile, 
again improving. He was very happy, for he was in an atmos- 
phere congenial to his feelings, and he enjoyed, with the keenest 
relish, the moral, intellectual, and religious repasts so often spread 
in Oberlin. But he could not rest to enjoy them alone. He loved to 
impart his good things to others, and accordingly frequently report- 
ed for the Star, some of the interesting meetings he attended. 
Among these reports were seven lectures on slavery by Professor 
Hudson, and Professor A. Walker's account of his tour in Eng- 
land and France. Perhaps there were few occasions that filled 
him with greater delight, than the celebration of West India 
emancipation, conducted entirely by the colored people. The de- 
corum, taste, and refinement, exhibited by them during the exer- 
cises of the day, afforded him the sweetest enjoyment, as it was a 
demonstration of the power of liberty, science, and religion, to el- 
evate this crushed and down-trodden race. 

Mr. Marks' physician having advised him to journey in an easy- 
carriage, entirely laying aside preaching, he concluded to attend 
the General Conference ; and, accordingly, Friday, September 
13, he left home in his own conveyance, accompanied by his 
wife, and brother Fairfield, who was going on his agency to 
New Hampshire. Saturday and Sabbath following, he attended 
the Lorain quarterly meeting in Sheffield. Two ministers united 
at this session, brethren H. Wellington and Charles Pierce. The 
former, an Oberlin student, was from Massachusetts, and had hith- 
erto been connected with the Calvinistic Baptists. The latter was 
a Congregationalist licensed minister, formerly a student at Ober- 



DAVID MARKS. 437 

iin, who, having embraced Baptist views, believed he had never 
been scripturally baptized. At his request, Mr. Marks now bap- 
tized him, and a very impressive season was enjoyed. 

Prosecuting his journey, and enjoying the kind attentions of 
brother Fairfield, Mr. Marks found his health improving, till two 
or three days before he reached Plainfield, when he took a severe 
cold, and his dropsical difficulties returned. He reached Plain- 
field in season to be present at the organization of the Conference. 
Fifty-three delegates attended, besides several other leading breth- 
ren, who had come from different states to enjoy the discussions of 
the Conference, and attend the anniversaries of the benevolent so- 
cieties. Soon after the Conference was opened, a little time was 
spent in listening to the remarks of brethren considerably advanc- 
ed in life, who had seen much of the glory of God. The season 
was a melting one, and an excellent preparation for the discussions 
before them. The reports from the different parts of the denom- 
ination were cheering. Nine yearly meetings, most of which had 
been newly organized, were received into membership. One of 
this number had been raised up through the instrumentality of a 
minister sent out by the Home Mission Board at an expense of 
only $1500. A very interesting letter was received from the mis- 
sionaries in India. They had formed small churches at two sta- 
tions, which they had organized into a quarterly meeting, called 
Balasore. All seemed astonished at the rapid spread of the de- 
nomination within the last few years. 

Resolutions, accompanied by soul-stirring speeches, were passed 
with great unanimity, on Slavery, Missions, Moral Reform, Popery, 
Temperance, Sabbath Schools, Education, State of Religion, 
Church Polity, Secret Societies, Printing Establishment, &c. 
Among the resolutions on slavery were the following : " Resolved, 
That all human laws which require men to violate the laws of 
God, are wicked laws, and should not be obeyed. Resolved, That 
all laws which require us to assist in returning the fugitive slave 
into bondage, or prohibit us from feeding, clothing, or protecting 
him, contravene the laws of God, and therefore should not be re- 
garded. Resolved, That this Conference believe it to be the duty 
of all Christian voters to act on anti-slavery principles at the bal- 
lot box." 

The following are a few of the remarks Mr. Marks made in sup- 
port of the last resolution, and are introduced as exemplifying 
some of his views of the political duty of a Christian citizen. He 
said : — 

" In this business of voting, there is a great moral principle, which 
has not been sufficiently weighed by the church to enable her to fix up- 
on her conscience, the responsibility she has at the ballot box in a re- 
37* 



438 MEMOIRS OF 

publican government. God has ordained human government. The 
form of government and the exercise of governmental powers, are 
left to be determined by circumstances. In a republic, the peo- 
ple are the sovereigns, — the governors — and God holds them re- 
sponsible as such. One's declining to act as a governor, lessens 
not his responsibility to God, so long as his power to act remains in his 
own hand. Nor does the fact that one cannot alone carry his point at 
the ballot box, lessen his moral obligation, so far as his proportion of 
power or influence is concerned. It is not necessary that a mob of one 
hundred should kill a hundred individuals, in order to constitute each 
one a murderer. All who engage in a mob which kills a single individ- 
ual are murderers. So it is in a republican government. I am responsi- 
ble for every principle I vote to have carried out. Nor will it avail me 
anything to plead as an excuse, that if I had not voted to put in an im- 
moral man, others would have put him in without me. I might on the 
same principle, rob, sell rum, practice licentiousness, &c, pleading that 
I deplore these evils ' as much as any body,' — * but' — if I don't practice 
them, ' others will.' # # # # # There is sophis- 
try in this doctrine ' of two evils, choose the least,' which is often 
overlooked. Evil has two meanings ; one signifies sin — the other ca- 
lamity. Now, while in the last sense, it is lawful to choose the least of 
evils, as did David when he chose between sword, pestilence, and 
famine, it is not true in the first sense, moral evils, that we should 
chose the least. To choose the least of two moral evils, is to choose to 
sin. To sin, under a pretence of effecting a greater good, is not only a 
simple, foolish doctrine, amid the light of this age, but it is a horrible 
doctrine, a ' damnable heresy,' and joins its advocates to those of whom 
Paul said their language was : ' Let us do evil that good may come.' 
Were there three candidates up for President of the United States, the 
first being the devil, the second a thief, and the third an honest man ; 
and had I the casting vote between the devil and the thief, I would by 
no means give it to the thief to keep the devil out, simply because I 
have no right to vote for the thief to keep others from putting in the 
devil. I must vote for the honest man, though by my adherence to 
principle, another should have the casting vote, and put in the devil. 
He then will have the guilt before all heaven, earth and hell, of putting 
in the devil, and I, before all the same witnesses, will have the praise to 
all eternity, of voting for the honest man. Let me illustrate the moral 
responsibility of voting. Suppose here is a crank connected with a 
wheel, that wheel with another, the second with a third, and so on to 
five hundred wheels, and I take hold of the crank, and turn it, and that 
turns the first wheel, that the next, and so on ; and the five hundredth 
wheel turns a sword in such a manner as to cut off a man's head. 
Now, who does not know that I am just as much a murderer as though 
I had done it directly by taking the sword into my own hand. To say 
I did not kill the man, that I merely turned the crank, &c. is a mere 
quibble. God holds me responsible for the natural results, which I saw 
would accrue from my turning the crank. So in the business of voting. 
Here is a law system, which not only robs the slaves of all their earnings, 
but compels them to licentiousness, and kills multitudes of them. But 
who made and retains the slave code that does all this wickedness ? The 



DAVID MARKS. 489 

law-makers. Who make the law-makers ! The voters — the sovereign 
people. # # # # # Hence it follows that every vo- 
ter who votes to send a pro-slavery agent to Congress, or put one into 
a law-making office, is himself a robber, and, if he knows all the circum- 
stances which his vote thus sanctions, he is also a murderer, and God 
will hold him responsible as such. # # # # 

The committee on secret societies, of which Mr. Marks was 
chairman, reported as follows : 

" That the watchfulness of the public eye is essential to the purity of 
all associated bodies and institutions whatever ; and that, in the present 
state of society, however pure may be the motives and principles of 
the founders of secret societies, secrecy is sure to corrupt them. * * 
In the opinion of your committee, all extrajudicial oaths or affirmations 
for the keeping of the secrets of such associations as Free Masons, 
Odd Fellows, Rechabites, and similar combinations, are contrary to 
the Bible, which forbids us to forswear ourselves, and contrary to the 
spirit of the Christian religion, which does not allow its subjects to 
agree to things which they do not understand, or to take obligations 
upon them which they do not know for themselves the bearings of, in 
contingencies which may arise, — Therefore, 

Resolved, That we advise our churches, as far as practicable, to avert 
this evil in its first beginnings, by laboring with all who take upon them 
the extra judicial oaths or pledges of these societies, or who remain 
connected with them." 

The report of the Book Concern afforded matter for devout 
thanksgiving, and furnished ample testimony of the wisdom and 
prudence with which it had continued to be conducted. Its value 
was now estimated at $25134, it was free from debt, and had several 
hundred dollars surplus funds, which the Conference voted to di- 
vide between the Mission and Education Societies. The Morning 
Star had been enlarged the third time, and otherwise improved, 
without addition to the price. 

But perhaps no subject that came before the Conference awaken- 
ed so much interest as the location of the " Biblical School," an 
Institution which had been established by the Education Society, 
and had been in operation several years without any permanent lo- 
cation. The Trustees of Clinton Seminary, N. Y., had made a very 
advantageous exchange of their Institution for the buildings of the 
Oneida Institute in Whitestown. They were anxious the Biblical 
School should be located with them, and had offered to give the use 
of one of their large buildings. Other very generous offers had been 
made from otherplaces ; and the Society had referred the decision to 
the General Conference. Notwithstanding the local interests, that 
could but have their influence on the minds of the members, the 
discussion was conducted in the most Christian spirit, and the de- 
cision finally was in favor of Whitestown. 



440 MEMOIRS OF 

After a week's sitting, when the time for the adjournment of the 
Conference arrived, a very great solemnity rested upon its mem- 
bers, several of whom addressed their brethren. But probably to 
none was it more solemn than to Mr. Marks. He said, " I thank 
my Heavenly Father for the strength he has unexpectedly given 
me to come to this Conference, and see so many that are dear to 
my heart. My feeble health admonishes me, that probably this is 
the last time that I shall see your faces in this world, and that I 
have for the last time reported your speeches. But I thank God 
that for me ' to live is Christ, to die would be gain.' I wish to ask 
you all to pray for me." The " Christian's Hope," by Mr. Sutton, 
commencing, 

"Hail sweetest, dearest tie that binds 
Our glowing hearts in one," 

was sung, and nearly all, if not all, wept as they exchanged salu- 
tations. Prayer was then offered, and an affecting separation fol- 
lowed, accompanied with many tears. 

Thus closed the twelfth General Conference. It had embodied 
a greater array of talent and sterling piety, than had ever before 
been assembled in the Free-will Baptist denomination. It was 
also the most interesting and important in its results. In subse- 
quent days, the subject of these memoirs often referred to this Con- 
ference, while tears of gratitude would flow down his cheeks, and, 
in the most melting accents, he would thank his Heavenly Father 
that he had strengthened him to attend it, and had permitted him 
to live to see so many strong young men raised up to fight in the 
holy war, and then he would frequently add, that he could be spar- 
ed from the field, and he was ready to depart in peace. 

Wednesday afternoon, Oct.* 9, Mr. Marks set out on his return 
homeward, and as he had been able, during the Conference, to 
write out but little part of the notes of his reports, and there was 
much anxiety for their immediate appearance in the Star, he em- 
ployed much of his time while travelling, in writing. These reports 
when published, occupied between fifty and sixty columns, and were 
read with the greatest avidity. On his return, he visited the In- 
stitution at Whitestown, and was extremely gratified with all he 
Saw. During a night in which he stopped between Rochester and 
Buffalo, the country was visited by a most dreadful tempest, which, 
with its effects, he thus described in the Star : 

" The prophet Isaiah said, that Christ should be ' A hiding place 
from the wind, and a covert from the tempest.' In the land of Judea, 
where the storms are frequently terrible and awfully sublime, the figure 
used in the above passage is a striking one. Nor has it been less stri- 
kingly appropriate to multitudes on lake Erie, and in western New 
York, who have witnessed the heart-rending effects of a terrible ten> 



DAVID MARKS. 441 

pest, which happened on Saturday morning, Oct. 18, 1844. We were 
then on our return from the General Conference, and had taken lodgings 
at the house of brother A. Achilles in Oak Orchard, about thirty miles 
from Rochester. At one o'clock in the morning, we were awakened by 
the noise of the wind and the tremulous motion of the house in 
which we lodged. At two o'clock, the family were up, and the shaking 
of the house warned us to flee to some stronger retreat. We were 
scarcely dressed, when there came a crash, the whole building reeled, 
and, for a moment, we expected to be buried in its ruins. The roof of 
the kitchen had fallen in, and we now all fled to a neighboring house. 
There we listened for hours to the ragings of the gale, and as we thought 
of the scenes of distress on the adjacent lakes, which, from the sudden- 
ness of the tempest must be unavoidable, we engaged in prayer. Sat- 
urday, we continued our journey westward, and through the whole 
country witnessed extensive damages, such as the destruction of timber, 
fences, and buildings. Four days after the gale, we visited the lower 
part of Buffalo, which had been inundated. The wind had blown from 
the south-west directly down the lake with such force, that the whole 
body of the lower end of the lake had risen, some said sixteen feet ! 
This, with the unprecedented dashing of the waves, caused an amount 
of destruction which almost surpasses the power of description. On one 
of the largest streets in the lower part of the city, we were told that the 
water stood five feet deep in the street. Yet beneath the large blocks of 
buildings w T ere under-ground rooms, some of which were used for sleep- 
ing apartments. At one time, it was said, the water rose four feet in 
five minutes. In some cases, a furious wave would burst in a door or 
window, and fill a room so suddenly, that the inmates had only time to 
awake and perish ! How aw r ful to such must have been that moment ! 
They had not the most distant dream of danger. They slept as calmly 
as others. They heard the noise of water — sprang from their beds, and 
found themselves in the dark rising flood — they were covered with it — 
no intelligence as to the cause — no explanation — no time for reasoning ; 
and the awful thought rushed on the soul — ' I am drowning — escape is 
impossible — it is done — -now I must meet my Judge — am 1 ready ? — No 
time for preparation — O ! lam going — going — gone !' It was said, that 
the screams of distress and cries for help, that alternately rose and died 
away amid the waves and winds from two o'clock till sunrise, were 
enough to melt a heart of stone. We were informed that the bodies 
of fifty-five had been picked up and carried to the court house, where 
they were left for a season that their friends might identify them. Many 
were missing that had not been found. Some were of the opinion that 
one hundred lives were lost in Buffalo, but, considering the number of 
those whose bodies may have w r ashed down the Niagara river, and sunk 
into the dreadful whirlpool below the Falls, never more to rise till Ga- 
briel's trump shall call out the dead from earth's deepest caverns, no 
one can be sure of even the probable number lost. We stood in the 
south part of the city, on the edge of the ruins, nearly a mile from the 
lake, and with the most solemn feelings surveyed the scene of desola- 
tion, which for more than a mile in extent, north and south, east and 
west, met the eye. # # * Though now four days after the destruc- 
tion, almost all kinds of materials seen in a city weie here piled in end- 



442 MEMOIRS OF 

less confusion. Large numbers of teams, and hundreds if not thousands 
of workmen were engaged in clearing away and regulating this singu- 
lar flood-wood." * '* # # 

Leaving Buffalo, the next day Mr. Marks visited the wreck of 
the steamer Robert Fulton, lying on the beach twenty miles south 
of Buffalo, where it was driven ashore during the gale, with about 
two hundred and seventy-five passengers on board. It was to 
them a night of awful terror, and of earnest, continued, and agon- 
izing prayer. Two were drowned in the steerage cabin, and two 
were washed overboard. He was told by one of the passengers, 
that an infidel was on board, who had zealously argued his princi- 
ples till the gale struck the vessel, and then, when all were expect- 
ing to be lost, he prayed as fervently as any one. Mr. Marks con- 
tinuing his journey, arrived in Oberlin the early part of Novem- 
ber. 



CHAPTER XXX. 

A few particulars respecting his state of health, last labors, deaths 
funeral sermon, farewell addresses, fyc, from Nov. 1844, to 

December, 1845. Also, extracts from the correspondence of 
friends, containing testimonials of their esteem and views of 

his character, 3;c. 

Mr. Marks preached a few Sabbaths after his return to Oberlin, 
but he found that every attempt increased his illness. Professor 
Finney now interested himself in his case, persuaded him to relin- 
quish his appointments, and encouraged him to hope that continued 
rest, sleeping all he possibly could, and omitting the use of medi- 
cine entirely, would yet restore him to a tolerable state of health. 
He commenced this course, and was astonished at the changes pro- 
duced. His bloating again subsided, his system became somewhat 
invigorated, and his friends greatly rejoiced in his brightening 
prospects. Professor Finney, in his kindness and care for him, 
used often to go out hunting wild game, with which he kept him 
almost constantly supplied for several months. Thus passed the 
winter and spring. As soon as Mr. Marks' friends were apprised 
of his state of health, and that he was destitute of funds to meet his 
current expenses, they made him kind and liberal remittances. 

May 31 and June 1, he attended the Ohio Northern yearly 
meeting, in compliance with the urgent entreaties of brethren, on 



DAVID MARKS. 443 

condition that they would not ask him to preach. It was held in 
Spencer, twenty miles from Oberlin. He assisted during the busi- 
ness meeting, lying down a part of the time. Sabbath morning, he 
gave a short exhortation, which produced a thrilling effect. One 
impenitent man went out, because he said he would not be seen to 
weep, and if he had remained, he should have burst into tears. Af- 
ter the meeting Mr. Marks returned to Oberlin, apparently unin- 
jured by this effort. 

June 2. A minister from Michigan called to persuade him to 
attend the Michigan yearly meeting, which was soon to assemble. He 
urged his attendance in the most moving terms, and was especially 
anxious on account of a literary institution the yearly meeting had 
just established. A charter had been obtained for a college, called 
Michigan Central College, and the school was then in operation in 
Spring Arbor, under the superintendence of brother Daniel H. 
Graham, a graduate from Oberlin. He argued that he could rest 
about as well on the steam-boat and in the cars as he could at home, 
and that a trip on the lake would benefit him. After considerable 
consultation, the decision of the matter was referred to Professor 
Finney, who, with much hesitation, reluctantly said, that perhaps it 
would not injure him. June 4, Mr. Marks took a steam-boat for 
Detroit at Huron, but after leaving the wharf, found the berths all 
engaged, consequently he was able to get very little rest through 
the night. At Detroit, he took the cars. The following letter 
from brother D. H. Graham, written since the death of Mr. Marks, 
gives a few particulars respecting his visit to the Michigan yearly 
meeting : 

" Spring Arbor, Mich. March 9, 1845. 
Dear Sister Marks : — 

* * Our yearly meeting, at which brother Marks 
preached his last sermon, was held on the 5th, 6th, and 7th of June last, 
in our meeting house at Leoni. * * 

On the morning of the 5th of June, I set out for the yearly meeting. 
At Jackson, eight miles from Detroit, I took the cars, when, to my great 
surprise, and still greater joy, I found that I was fellow passenger with 
Elder Marks. He was in company with Elder Elijah Cook. He was 
unusually cheerful — almost jovial. I expressed my joy for the privilege 
of meeting him in my own state, and of listening to him once more : he 
said, owing to illness, he should not attempt to preach. In a few mo- 
ments we were at Leoni, eight miles from Jackson. Having been in- 
troduced to the Conference, he asked the privilege of lying down during 
their deliberations. Accordingly, he took his position on a buffalo robe, 
his head being supported by pillows. As Pitt was carried on a bed to 
Parliament to discharge his last political duty, so, in future, it may be 
said of brother Marks, that he was borne to the house of God to dis- 
charge his last two public duties in the service of his King. He fre- 
quently spoke during the deliberations of the conference, sometimes 



444 MEMOIRS OF 

standing, sometimes reclining. Saturday afternoon, there was a sermon 
and religious conference. His feelings were much elated. While thus 
looking upon the work of his Master, and being pressed by all, he con- 
sented to preach the next day. Sabbath morning, the church was 
crowded, and many were standing outside at the doors and windows. 
After a sermon preached from the words, * If any man thirst, let him 
come unto me and drink, ' your husband preached from Matt. 28:19, 20, 
* Go ye therefore and teach all nations,' &c. He kept his seat for the 
most part while delivering his sermon. He was very moderate when 
he began, manifestly favoring himself what he could. His sermon was 
simple in diction, powerful in argument, and overwhelming in pathos. 
He seemed to be familiarly talking with each auditor till every one was all 
attention, then compelling conviction by his argument, while tears gush- 
ed from his own eyes, he seemed literally, with resistless strains of elo- 
quence, to melt the whole audience before him. In vain I attempt to 
describe the scene. He continued thus more than two hours. So deep, 
lasting, and extensive, were the impressions made by that sermon, both 
among professors and non-professors, that long, long after the speaker 
shall have lain in the grave, one wanderer after another will, through 
its influence, be brought home to God. 

After sermon, he was taken to Elder Limbocker's, completely ex- 
hausted. He told me that he feared that he had done wrong in preach- 
ing so long. I parted with him, expecting never to meet him again, as 
it was then his intention to leave the next morning for Oberlin. The 
next day, however, he called upon me in Spring Arbor, apparently in 
better health than he was before preaching. When passing in front of 
the new building erected for the use of our Institution in this place, he 
fixed his eye on it, and paused for a while, as though in deep thought. 
At length, addressing himself to Elder Coltrin, he spoke with deep 
emotion of the progress of the denomination. * Who would have 
thought a few years ago,' said he, ' that our denomination would, from 
a mere infant, have become a great people, spreading far and wide ! 
Who would have thought,' continued he, * that so soon after hiding my 
grammar, lest the indignation of my elder brethren would be out against 
me, we should have one literary institution after another, and most of all 
away here at the West ! ' Many remarks similar to these he made 
while with us. He spoke of the influence this institution would be 
likely to exert in the great battle yet to be fought between Truth and 
Error in the West. So elated did he become, that he even shouted, 
< Glory to God ! Glory to God ! !' " 

Mr. Marks returned to Oberlin, after an absence of eight days, 
much enfeebled. Rest now failed to benefit him ; he grew worse 
rapidly, and his symptoms became very alarming. After much 
entreaty, he was persuaded to resort to medicines which had for- 
merly lessened his dropsical difficulties, but they produced no ef- 
fect. Again, he gave up all hope of recovery, but was very calm 
and happy. Once more, in deference to the anxious feelings of his 
family, he consented to call a physician who had recently settled 
in Oberlin ; but told him he had no expectation that he could ben- 
efit him. The physician, after an examination of his case, expressed 



DAVID MARKS. 445 

confidence that lie could be relieved ; but said if the accumulation 
of water could not be carried off, he could live but few days. He 
commenced treating his case, and very shortly succeeded beyond 
his most sanguine expectations, in removing the dropsical obstruc- 
tions, and restoring him to ease and comparative comfort. Again, 
his friends and himself were flattered with hopes of his restoration 
to health. Sometimes, while lying on his couch, and thinking of 
once more being able to preach, he would say, " O, what a beauti- 
ful world is this. I am not anxious to leave it. O the precious 
harvest of the Lord. How delightful it will be to labor in it again. 
I would like to live a hundred years, if it were my Heavenly Fath- 
er's will, and I could preach. O, I would like to see the triumphs 
the gospel will then have won. I would like to see the wonderful 
effects wrought by the annihilation of distance by steamboats, rail- 
roads, and the wonderful magnetic telegraph. God will use all 
these for the spread of his knowledge." Thus he would often go 
on, his eye kindling with expression, and his countenance glowing 
with emotions too big for utterance. His health continued to im- 
prove for a few weeks, and then seemed to remain about station- 
ary. He usually rode out every day, and sometimes attended 
worship on the Sabbath. On one occasion, at Professor Finney's 
request, he broke bread to the Oberlin church, and made some re- 
marks, and several times he opened or closed the meetings by 
prayer. 

In the mean time, he was often cheered by the letters of his 
Christian friends. Among them were communications from his 
missionary friends, Sutton, Bacheler, and Phillips. The latter 
wrote : 

" Jellasore, India, Sept. 11, 1844. 
Dear Brother Marks : — 

# * * * We see by the Star, that you have been ex- 
tensively engaged in the cause of education. The success which at- 
tended your effort in Ohio is really encouraging, and seems to have been 
unprecedented in our denomination. 

I read your full and very interesting letter of March 13, 1844, at our 
late quarterly meeting, it being of common interest to us all. We all 
felt sorry, though none disappointed, that you were laid aside from ac- 
tive labors, and suffering from ' nervous debility.' The wonder seemed 
rather to be, that you still kept soul and body together, and I believe 
we were all agreed in charging you with imprudence. * Strength equal 
to your day,' seems not to satisfy you. You grasp after the strength of 
three or four days in one. My dear brother, is this wise ? I trust you 
have taught the people truths that will not soon be forgotten ; but even 
to do this, ought a man to kill himself? A candle lighted at both ends 
must soon burn out, and cease to afford any light. On the subject of 
your own education, to us in India, you appear to be verging an ex- 
treme. Already broken down with hard labor, and sinking into the 
38 



446 MEMOIRS OP 

grave under the pressure of premature old age, the vital fluids too much 
exhausted to rally again soon, you are, to say the least, in a poor state 
of body or mind, to endure four or six years of close application to hard 
study, not to inquire what your prospects for usefulness are likely to be 
when the task shall have been accomplished, should you live so long. 
One would think that David might well have been content with Go- 
liah's sword in addition to his sling and smooth stones, without coveting 
Saul's armor, and especially so, when he sees what a mighty victory 
they had gained for Israel. If I have taken too great liberty, I know 
you will pardon me, rather than take it amiss. What you say of your 
state of mind and of the society at Oberlin, is calculated to represent 
your situation as the most desirable on earth, and such I can fancy it to 
be. Many thanks for your offer of the Oberlin Evangelist. I should 
much prize the Evangelist, but I cannot consent to have you give it to 

With you, I look forward with delight to the time we shall meet, no 
more to part. I trust I can say, that ' for me to live is Christ, to die 
would be gain.' Once more, adieu. J. Phillips." 

Elder Place wrote him June 7, 1845, as follows : 

" Dear Brother Marks : — 

You cannot conceive the peculiar sensations that filled my 
heart at the close of the General Conference at Plainfield, when you 
told us that it was the last time you ever expected to report the doings 
of that body, and that it was more than probable, that before their next 
session, you should be numbered with the dead! My thoughts flew 
quicker than lightning over our beloved denomination in solemn search 
for a man to fill your place, but could not find him ; neither have I 
been any more successful in my search since, than at that time ; and if 
there is one of our brethren whom God has designed to fill your place, it 
is only known to him, and not to us. On a second view of the subject, 
I have never been able to bring my thoughts to believe for a single mo- 
ment that your gospel labors were about to close forever. Hence it has 
been my earnest prayer, that your health might be restored, and that 
our brethren might pray for that specific object, and that you might be 
reconciled to your lot, and take every precaution to] recover your health. 
Whitefield said at Exeter, the day before his death, that he was not 
tired of the way, but tired in the way. All resignation to the divine 
will, to live or die, should be the frame of mind in which every true ser- 
vant of Christ should be found ; but truly this is no small work or mi- 
nor attainment : it is only through much prayer, and the assistance of 
divine grace, that such victories are ever achieved. And further, we 
should not wish or long to go to heaven, while it is God's will that we 
remain on earth. For could we live a thousand lives, and each to the 
common age of man, and spend the whole in preaching the gospel of 
Christ, O, it would be delightful work, glorious employment, and then, 
with all those brought to Christ by his ever-blessed gospel, we should 
find ample time to praise God in a world without end. # # # * * 
May God raise you up to health, and prolong your days for Zion's sake. 

E. Place." 
Mr. Marks seldom allowed himself to write replies to any let- 
ters, or furnish any articles for the Morning Star, though his name 



DAVID MARKS. 447 

was still continued as one of the assistant editors. But noticing a 
communication from a correspondent, favoring the society of " Odd 
Fellows," he forwarded- an article on the subject, from the Oberlin 
Quarterly Review. To this article he wrote the following preface, 
which was about the last he wrote for the Star. It was published 
October 15, 1845. 

" It was with sorrow that I perused an article in a late number of the 
Star, from an esteemed brother, as we are assured, favorable to the soci- 
ety of Odd Fellows. When I was strong and ' able to go whithersoev- 
er I would,' my Lord demanded me to expend some of my energies in an 
uncompromising warfare against secret societies. The society of Free 
Masons at that time was most prominent, and that was a glad day to my 
soul, when oar General Conference, years ago, took a decided stand 
against them. I mourn that so soon the evil is gaining ground in the 
rapid spread of the society of Odd Fellows. But let this selfish organi- 
zation be confined to the children of the devil, whence it originated, and 
where it belongs ; and let not the followers of a pure and holy Savior, 
turn aside to be taken in its snares, deceiving and being deceived. 
When I read the article referred to, I could scarcely restrain myself 
from taking my pen with a view of exposing to the readers of the Star 
the wicked principles of this society ; but the reflection that even this 
effort might blast my prospect of returning strength, or hinder me longer 
from open combat with the foes of Zion, deterred me from the at- 
tempt." # # # 

A difficulty had arisen in a church near Oberlin, in consequence 
of the faithful and pointed testimony of its pastor against intemper- 
ance. This difficulty had been referred to the Lorain quarterly 
meeting, of which this church was a member. Mr. Marks, fearing 
the faithful minister might not be sustained, determined to attend 
the quarterly meeting, to which he had been appointed a delegate, 
and which was to be held in September, about twenty miles from 
Oberlin. On being remonstrated with for his decision, and being 
reminded that his physician would not consent, he replied, " I shall 
not ask my physician. W 7 e are commanded to lay down our lives 
for the brethren. There are those that will, if they can, sacrifice 

brother , because he has been faithful to truth and their souls. 

He is a man of God, and it is my duty to go and stand by him." 
At the time appointed, he went, accompanied by four Free-will 
Baptist ministers living in Oberlin, all of whom rendered effective 
aid in favor of the persecuted minister, being permitted to take part 
in the discussions. For a day and a half the subject was canvass- 
ed. Mr. Marks was the only member that defended the uncom- 
promising course of the faithful preacher ; but he was in his ele- 
ment, and never did he appear stronger in the power of truth, nor 
his spirits more buoyant. Undaunted, fearless, and bold in his po- 
sitions, he seemed to speak with a power more than human. In- 



448 MEMOIRS OF 

deed, his language was clothed with a grandeur, that was both aw- 
ful and terrible, and which carried resistance before it. When the 
final vote was taken, he expected that he should be in "the glori- 
ous minority of one" but, to his great astonishment, it was unani- 
mous on the side he had advocated, except one, who refused to 
vote. Two or three members, as they were parties concerned, did 
not vote. Mr. Marks lay down much of the time during the delib- 
erations of the Conference. After its close, he returned to Ober- 
lin, exceedingly happy and joyful, and to the surprise of himself 
and friends, apparently in better health than when he left home. 
From this circumstance, they all felt encouraged to hope for his 
ultimate recovery. 

The following Sabbath he attended worship at Oberlin, which, 
as near as can be recollected, was the last Sabbath he ever spent in 
an earthly sanctuary. He walked to the meeting house, perhaps a 
quarter of a mile distant. At noon, he dined with Professor Fin- 
ney, lay down on a sofa most of the time during the intermission, 
meanwhile conversing with much animation. At the close of the 
afternoon service, he walked home, stopping by the way at Presi- 
dent Mahan's to rest. He was again very cheerful, conversed 
about the prospect of his returning health, and remarked that he 
thought he should yet be able to preach the glorious and blessed 
gospel. The President said he thought so too. About the middle 
of October, he rode out one morning to attend to what he thought 
was indispensable business. The air was chilly — he took cold, and 
shortly after his dropsical symptoms returned, with aggravated vio- 
lence. His physician, who was about to leave on a journey to 
Massachusetts, to be absent several w T eeks, tried to encourage him 
to hope for another removal of those symptoms, gave him some 
general prescriptions, and charged him to be very cautious of future 
exposures, as they might bring on a relapse that would terminate 
fatally. He faithfully followed the directions of his physician ; but 
his disorder steadily increased, while his soul seemed absorbed in 
heavenly contemplations. He often said his hopes of recovery 
were again very faint, and talked almost incessantly in the most 
touching strains, about the reality and consolation of the Chris- 
tian's hope, the resurrection, the work of the " spirit-land," and the 
glories of heaven. Still none of his friends were particularly 
alarmed, as he had several times been apparently much worse. 
He had recently heard of the death of his oldest brother in Illinois, 
and they attributed his conversing so much about his own depar- 
ture, to the effect of this intelligence upon his mind. He continued 
declining, and finally began to speak of the certainty of his dissolu- 
tion in a more positive manner than he ever had before. His com- 
panion, now fearing that he was about to be removed, commenced 



DAVID MARKS. 449 

recording a very few of his many remarks for her own consolation, 
in case he should soon pass away. These memoranda are as fol- 
lows ; but they give a very faint and imperfect idea of the glorious 
and affecting scenes of his closing life. To those who had the in- 
valuable, the blessed privilege of seeing the angelic expression of 
his countenance, and hearing his heavenly words, his very room 
seemed often " quite the verge of heaven." 

October 28, Tuesday. My dear husband said to me he was decided 
that there was in his case no hope of recovery. It was a great trial to 
his mind to lift the veil and tell me we must part, but he felt sure he 
should stay but little time. He knew my trial was much greater than 
his, said he tenderly sympathized with me. He well remembered his 
own feelings when, watching by my sick bed, he expected to be left, 
and felt that he knew not how to endure it. " But I bless God," said 
he, " that in mercy he has so constituted us that the poignancy of grief 
will wear away. * Though sorrow endure for a night, joy will come in 
the morning.' We have lived together as Christians. More than six* 
teen years God has given us to each other. They have been happy 
years, blessed with the most perfect mutual confidence and affection. In 
a little time we shall be re-united, and when your work is done, I shall 
joyfully welcome your spirit to that better land." What he did, he ad- 
ded, must be done quickly. He wanted to write letters to his friends, 
also a farewell address to his beloved denomination and to the world, 
while his strength remained. He wished to be carried to the house of 
worship, to give one more public testimony for God, to speak once more 
to the students preparing for the ministry. He was very happy, felt his 
work was done. He had loved it exceedingly, though for years he had 
labored in great weakness of body. Now he was going where he could 
work without sleep, and labor without fatigue. [At this date he had no 
alarming symptoms except being weaker.] 

October 30. He wrote thus to his youngest brother. " My dear 
brother Jeremiah : — Your letter of the 4th inst., bringing the painful 
tidings of our brother's death, was duly received. So our dear brother 
Friend has gone — gone to his long home — gone to the spirit world — to 
receive, while endless ages roll on, according to the deeds done in the 
body ! And soon we must follow him, and know all the realities that 
there are on the other side of the river of death. I am fast hastening. 
I write to you now in bed, to which I am confined most of the time, and 
have no expectation of recovering my health. I am exceedingly weak r 
and probably this is the last letter I shall ever be able to write you. I 
may drag along some months yet, but I should not be surprised, should 
I drop away in a week. The tide of life has run so low that I am now 
arranging all my affairs to leave without a moment's warning. But 
glory to God, dear brother Jeremiah, I am prepared — and I am happy. 
Jesus Christ has taken away the sting of death, so that I rejoice and am 
exceedingly happy in view of my certain dissolution. What supports 
and comforts me, dear brother, is the hope of eternal life— a sure hope 
like an anchor to the soul, sure and steadfast, and entering even into 
heaven. O, my brother, don't be offended with me, when I say, would 
to God that my brother Jeremiah had this hope also— this good hope — 
38* 



430 MEMOIRS OF 

this precious hope — which extends beyond this life — which will buoy up 
the spirit in the dark valley and shadow of death. O that you were a 
Christian ! a good Christian — a genuine Christian- — that you had all the 
consolations of the blessed, the glorious hope of eternal life ! Nothing 
else can fill and satisfy man's capacious soul — his restless nature. O 
brother, you may become a Christian — God is willing — Heaven will 
forgive— mercy lingers around you, and knocks at your heart for admit- 
tance. Until you become a Christian, you can never fill the design of 
your being. Keligion, genuine religion, is as much the natural food of 
the human soul, as earthly food is the natural food for the body. I am 
glad, my dear brother, that you did not go to sea. * * * * May 
God help you to be contented, and give you a good hope of immortality. 
Farewell, dear brother. If you can, do write me one more letter before 
I die. Your affectionate brother, 

David Marks." 

October 29 or 30. He rode out and met Professor Finney, who said he 
thought he should leave Oberlin the next morning to spend the winter. 
Mr. Marks expressed his regret, and added that he wished him to preach 
his funeral sermon. President Mahan was already gone. Professor 
Finney smiled and said, " Brother Marks, you can't die now. Are 
you subject to depression of spirits?" He replied, " No, I was never 
happier."* 

October 31, Friday. He said he was only confirmed in his views that 
he had but few days to stay with me. I asked him why he felt so. He 
then rehearsed the history of his sickness from the time of his labors to 
establish the |Book Concern, where his toils and exposures subjected 
him to four successive fits of sickness, since which he had never seen a 
well hour. From year to year he had kept running down lower and 
lower. He had tried to rest, he had tried to be quiet, but he had such 
an insatiable thirst to do something for God that he could not. If his 
body was still, his mind was like a steam engine, his thoughts flew with 
the speed of lightning, and it was a vain attempt to stay them. He 
knew his constitution could not long endure. God had trained him for 
the work of the spirit-land. He had greater work for him, nobler busi- 
ness in the upper world. 

November 1. Little Julia and myself rode with him to Pittsfield. As 
we passed the grave-yard, he pointed to it and said, " My dear Julia, 
soon I shall lie there. This is the last time you will ever ride with 
your papa, whom you love so much. I am going to live with angels in 
heaven." On our return home, we met Professor Finney, who asked 
him how he did ? With a peculiar emphasis and a heavenly smile, he 
said, — 

" There's not a cloud that doth arise 
To hide my Savior from my eyes." 

November 2, Sabbath. He rode out on horseback, returned greatly 
fatigued, said he thought he should never go out of Oberlin — that he 
should go out of the door but few times more — spoke again of writing a 
farewell address to the Free-will Baptist denomination. As he was so 

* Professor Finney was detained by sickness in his family. 



DAVID MARKS. 451 

feeble, 1 suggested that instead of writing it himself he should employ 
a stenographer. He thanked me for the suggestion. 

November 3. Professor Finney called to see him. He again asked 
him to preach his funeral sermon. Professor Finney, not supposing 
him so ill, smiled and said : " I will, if you will agree to preach mine 
if I die first." Soon he examined his pulse, appeared astonished and 
said, " I did not think you were so low." He then prayed with him. 
Mr. Marks told him how much he had loved to preach — said he wished 
to be carried to the church, and give one more testimony for God. 
Professor Finney replied : " I would love to have you, but I fear you 
are too weak. Brother Marks," he continued, " you have done the 
work of eighty years in forty. I don't know but it is good economy to 
do our work quick, and save the time for heaven. I think it is. Such 
is the selfishness and stupidity of the world, that unless a man makes a 
tremendous effort, he can accomplish but little." 

November 4. A physician, living several miles from Oberlin, who 
had been sent for, called and stayed the night with him. He seemed 
very confident that he could help him. Mr. Marks told him he would 
take his medicine, but added : " It will do no good." He left his di- 
rections, and promised to see him again in a week. 

November 6. He dictated several hours to a stenographer his dying 
message to his beloved brethren. He seemed much animated and to en- 
joy it exceedingly. When he was through, expecting he would be 
much exhausted, I asked him how he felt. " Oh ! well, very well ; I 
have had a feast of fat things." In the afternoon, Elders S. 0. Parker 
and A. Curtis with some others came to see him, and asked him how he 
was. He replied, " Happy, very happy. I have got almost well." The 
next day, as they w r ere about to leave, he said to one of the young brethren 
with them, " Be strong. Let sanctification be your motto. Set God before 
you in all your meat, and drink, and dress, and when you enter the dark 
valley of death, God will send kind angels to minister to you. I look 
back upon my life, and have a sweet consciousness that I have not lived 
to please myself, but have, through grace, been able to bear a pointed 
testimony for God, and that, regardless of the frowns or praises even of 
my friends, I have done what I believed my Lord called me to do, and 
now while I approach the dark valley, God sends angels to minister un- 
to me. They hover around me, and there is not a cloud between me 
and my Savior." Taking Elder Parker by the hand, he said, " Fare- 
well. We have spent happy hours together ; we part now, but shall 
soon meet again. I am going to my heavenly home. When I am gone, 
remember my poor wife, and the poor slave." 

November 10. Set up three or four hours, begged for something to 
do that would be useful to his family. At his request, some pumpkins 
were carried into his room, and he busied himself while he sat up cutting 
them. Towards night Professor Finney called, and said, " Brother Marks, 
how do you do?" " I am happy, very happy, happy as I can be." 
Prof. Finney said, " You are doing well. I did not expect you had 
made so much progress. You have got on well towards heaven." Mr. 
Marks asked him if he had selected a text for his funeral. He answer- 
ed that he had not. He then said, " A funeral sermon is for the living 
and not for the dead. I have been thinking of several passages, but my 



452 MEMOIRS OF 

mind does not settle on any. I have thought of this : ' Exercise thyself 
rather unto godliness.' O, if I had health, how I would delight to run 
through the churches, and again hold up the doctrine of holiness of 
heart — of entire consecration to God." Professor Finney replied : " It 
is well that it is in thine heart to build a house unto the Lord." In the 
evening, as I was going to lie down, he asked me if I would give him 
up. I told him I had not, for I was not convinced that it was the will 
of the Lord to take him yet. He said, " You will have to give me up 
very soon." Atone o'clock, I got up. He said, " lam weaker— thank 
God for it. I am happy, very happy ; I am going to my Father, to 
the society of disembodied spirits, to the sweet labors of eternity. The 
tomb is not gloomy. The Savior has passed through it. My bloated 
limbs look beautiful to me, a sign that I am near my home." I asked 
him if he were in haste to leave me. " O no," said he, " I have never 
said with Paul I prefer to depart, could I have health to preach the 
glorious gospel ; but if unable to labor for God, I would prefer to depart. 
This is a dark, wicked world, full of selfishness and unbelief, and there 
is a great deal to be done. I should love to preach and labor here, but 
my Father sees it not best. There is nothing to be accomplished by 
my staying here. I have nothing to do. I am entirely reconciled and 
ready. As I enter the dark valley, the Savior is with me — angels min- 
ister unto me, and they seem to fan me with their wings. You have 
been a good wife, and when you come to die, the same grace will be 
given you. I have been sick a great while, and I rejoice to have the 
question settled. I have been anxious about the result, and my friends 
have been anxious. Either alternative would be joyful. I am a happy 
man ; were I to live, it would be for the delightful work of saving souls, 
but to die would be gain." 

November 11. He wrote and talked all day — expressed great anxiety 
to be carried to the chapel to give one more public testimony. I tried 
to dissuade him, pleading that perhaps he might recover, and that such 
a step might turn the scale. He did not think so, but would submit the 
matter to me. If I was unwilling he would not go. After a fit of 
coughing he looked at me and said, " O how much I would prefer to 
spend my strength in publicly testifying for God, than in coughing and 
struggling for breath. Who knows but that God by his Spirit, through 
something I might say, would touch the heart of some one of the stu- 
dents here, who would do much more for him than I could, should I live 
to be old." I told him I could not bear such responsibility, I would op- 
pose his desire no longer — I was willing he should go. He laughed and 
wept for joy, and thanking me, said he knew it was affectionate anxiety 
that had so long withholden my consent. He sent for Professors Finney 
and Dascomb to consult them. Prof. Finney said he would love to 
have him go, but he thought he would not live through it. Dr. Das- 
comb thought the same. He thought differently, but he said, if he did 
not, he would as lief die in the chapel as at home. It would be a glori- 
ous death to die in the field. Prof. Finney said, if he desired it, he 
should be gratified, and every arrangement should be made. He re- 
quested Dr. Dascomb to make a post-mortem examination of his body. 
He said he used to have a dread of death, which he supposed was con- 
stitutional, and that he should never overcome it, and until lately it had 



DAVID MARKS. 453 

always caused a shuddering to think of its approach, but now it seemed 

a friend, a kind angel — its sting was taken away. He continued, " If 

you take a bee, and extract its sting, it cannot harm you, even if it crawl 

on your bosom." Seeing us weep around him, he would sing with a 

smile, 

" Weep not, mv friends ; my friends, weep not for me, 
All is well." 

Said Professor Finney, " How strange it must seem to worldlings to 
hear a man giving directions with such cheerfulness, about his own post- 
mortem examination." Miss Curtis called. As he looked up and saw 
the sun setting in the west, he said to her, " O this beautiful world. It 
looks beautiful, because I see God in it. How beautiful every thing 
looks about the house. The perfect adaptation of every thing in nature 
to all its parts reveals God. I could sooner believe, that if the letters of 
a newspaper were cut in pieces and scattered to the four winds, they 
would fall in the city of New York and form a perfect volume, than that 
this w r orld came by chance, or that the Bible is not the book of God." 
He spoke of going to his sweet home. She said to him, " You love 
your wife so much, how can you bear to leave her?" He replied, " I 
know with whom I leave her. Oar separation will be short : her Heav- 
enly Father will not suffer her to shed a single tear, or endure a single 
pang, which he will not overrule for her good. Not a hair of her head 
can fall to the ground without His notice." 

November 12. He wrote : " Being just ready to depart out of this 
world unto the Father, my dear wife asks me to write in her album, and 
this as one of the last mementoes that I can leave her. I comply with 
the greatest pleasure, though probably this is the last writing that I 
shall ever make — my heart being nearly drowned, and the pulsations of 
life so weak as often to stop. I am now waiting hourly in expectation 
of my change, being fully prepared, and filled with indescribable joy at 
the thought of entering that world where I can labor without sleep, and 
work forever without fatigue. Sixteen years and forty-five days God 
has lent us to each other in the Lord . Sweet have been these days ; and the 
union without a bitter pang, has been an apprenticeship to prepare us 
for the union of spirits in the next world. And though w T e are now 
called to part, it is but for a few days, and then to meet in that land 
where * Adieus' and ' Farewells' are sounds unknown." 

He selected the hymns to be sung at his funeral, and wrote out the 
first lines, in the following order i 

1st Hymn. " I would not live alway, I ask not to stay, &c. 

2d do. " Ah ! lovely appearance of death," &c. 

3d do. " What is this that steals upon my frame, &c. 

To be sung at my grave. 

4th do. " Unveil thy bosom, faithful tomb," &c. 

He requested, if it should be convenient, that the bearers should be min- 
isters. I asked him why he wished this. " O," said he, " because I 
love them so." After a few minutes silence he exclaimed, " What a 
reality the Christian's hope is ! Nothing I ever experienced was more a 
reality. Jesus said, ' Feel of me, a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as 



454 MEMOIRS OF 

ye see me have.' " Mrs. Willard and some other friends called : as 
they entered, he sung with much emotion, 

" There is not a cloud that doth arise 
To hide my Savior from my eyes, 
I soon shall mount the upper skies, — 
All is well." 

Mrs. Willard said his countenance seemed radiant with glory, and his 
sick room, which she expected would seem sad, was in reality bright 
and joyful. 

He passed a very sick and distressed night, and it was not thought he 
would survive till morning. He said he had hoped to speak for God 
once more, hut did not think he should live to see the hour of his ap- 
pointment. " Father, not as I will, but as thou wilt. Thou know- 
est I have not been idle in thy vineyard." During the night, several 
times when he was thought to be dying, he sung, — 

" Vital spark of heavenly flame, 
Quit, O quit, this mortal frame ! 
Trembling, hoping, lingering, flying, 
O the pain, the bliss of dying ! 
Cease fond nature, cease thy strife, 
And let me languish into life." 

His new physician spent the night with him. When he came, he 
seemed astonished at the change he saw, and wept like a child as he 
told him he must die. Mr. Marks heard him with a joyful smile. 

November 13. He sent for Mr. Kinney to take a measure for his 
coffin, and never was he measured for a suit of clothes with more cheer- 
ful composure. He told him to make it plain, with no unnecessary 
expense. He wished to have his shroud made without delay. After 
some minutes silence he laughed and wept. I asked, why these emo- 
tions. He said, " Heaven ! bright visions ! The reality of the Chris* 
tian's hope ! Never was any thing of my life more real." 

He prayed at morning family worship thus : " O holy Father, I thank 
thee that thou didst forgive my sins and count me faithful in putting me 
into the ministry, that these unworthy hands have handled the words of 
eternal life. 1 thank thee for the mercies of my sickness, that I have 
suffered so little pain, that as I am entering the dark valley, thou art 
with me, that thou hast sent kind angels to minister unto me. O Jesus, 
I thank thee for thy presence. What should I do, while heart and flesh 
fail, without thee ! Let me see the light of thy blessed countenance to 
the end. Bless my dear wife and sister. I thank thee that thou hast 
prepared them to part with me. And now, Father, if it please thee to 
keep the vital spark burning till the hour of my appointment, that I 
may give one more testimony for thee I would rejoice ; but, Father, thy 
will be done." 

Having talked incessantly for a time, I tried to persuade him to rest. 
He replied, " Talking excites me and makes me easy. My soul is full, 
like a cart pressed with sheaves, and I must give it vent. O if I had a 
voice that could sound around the globe and make the whole earth hear, 
every king, potentate, philosopher, and sceptic, how I would love to 
preach an hour ! O the Christian's hope ! The philosopher, after he 
has fortified his giant intellect all his life, the utmost he can do is to die 



DAVID MARKS. 455 

with composure ; while the Christian, though weak and ignorant, not 
only has composure, but ecstatic joy." 

E. Hawley called, asked him how he was. " happy, happy, happy. 
Home, home, home, sweet home ; there I can work without fatigue, and 
labor without sleep." 

Anna Mahan called; he said to her, " My bloated limbs, distended 
stomach, suffocation, palpitating heart, are beautiful passports to my 
long home, kind angels to release me from my clay." A little time af- 
ter, he said, with great emotion, " How differently I die from my Sa- 
vior ! See him on the cross ! Nails through his hands and through his 
feet! I am surrounded with kind friends, ready to anticipate every 
w r ant." He gave his cane to Professor Finney, and his watch to his 
sister. 

At three o'clock to his great joy he was carried to the chapel, reclin- 
ing on pillows in a large easy chair, and set down on the stand. Profes- 
sor Finney announced to the assembly that it was doubtful whether he 
would survive the effort to speak to them — that Dr. Dascomb was una- 
ble to find any pulse in one wrist, and only a little trembling in the other. 
He hoped if he should die in the attempt the people would remain in 
their seats, as his friends near him would take care of him. A hymn 
was sung, he prayed, and then addressed the audience about half an hour. 
After he was carried home, he continued in great distress till midnight, 
and was several times thought to be dying. He frequently sung, " Vi- 
tal spark," &c. At one time, he said, " I think I am going — straiten 
my limbs — fold my arms on my bosom. O, if this be dying, it is happy 
dying." 

November 14. He said he was disappointed that he had not got 
home, but not unhappy, he trusted not unreconciled. He said, " I have 
been very happy, happy, Hallelujah to the Lamb ! how differently I 
die from those that are not Christians. I go to a happy home, where 
the sun will never go down, sorrow and sin will never come ; but 
they to eternal darkness, where their selfishness in which they 
have trained themselves will torment them forever. 0, poor sin- 
ners ! poor sinners!" He prayed " O Jesus, when wilt thou come? 
Give me patience to wait." He said to me, with a look of in- 
expressible tenderness, "If I am permitted to come on errands 
to this world, I will visit you frequently and give you good suggestions." 
He wished to see his class of little children, (who had met him in his 
sick room for several months for prayer and religious instruction, some 
of whom he thought had been converted.) They came into his room 
two or three at a time. Taking them separately by the hand, he would 
say, " My little dear, I am going to heaven where the Savior and angels 
are. Will you be a good child and try to meet me there I I shall not 
be able to teach you and pray with you any more. Remember what I 
have said to you. " Then kissing them, and frequently they kissing him, 
they retired, sobbing as though their hearts would break. 

He said, " If the worthless tree or shrub which has been cut down, 
or whose ' stock has died in the ground/ will bud and grow, shall not 
man, whose noble powers pant for immortality, live again? He will, I 
know he will. 0, the sweet, the glorious doctrine of the resurrection ! 



456 MEMOIRS OF 

It not only dispels the darkness of the tomb — the gloom of the grave- 
but it even gilds its pathway with a heavenly radiance." 

Mr. Bartlett called at evening, and though in great distress he looked 
up and smiled. " You are happy," said Mr. B. " Why should I not 
be? The greatest monarch that ever ascended a throne was never so 
sure of the reality of enjoying wealth, honor, and glory as I am. God 
makes it a reality to me. It is sure. I know it." He had a sinking 
turn during the night— watchers thought he was going, and called me 
to see him die. He soon revived and said, " Lord Jesus, 0, how long? 
When wilt thou let the pilgrim go home?" 

November 15. He looked bright and happy. Exhibited the same 

care and exactness in some little things for which he was remarkable 

when in health. I said to him, he appeared so natural it did not seem 

possible that he was going to die. " Why should I change?" said he. 

" I expect to die David Marks. I have lived for God and heaven— for the 

judgment and eternity. I have lived with death in view, and now why 

should I change?" He inquired if his coffin and shroud were done, 

then sung — 

" Jerusalem, my happy home, 
O, how I long for thee," &c. 

After a little silence, as if in deep meditation, he asked me, " What 
do you think my mother and brother Jeremiah will say to me when I 
meet them in the spirit world ? There are many there that will be glad 
to see me." 

Sunday, November 16. Very feeble, unable to lie down without 
great distress, said it was a good symptom, a symptom that he could en- 
dure but a little while, that he was nearly through. He talked little, 
was very patient and happy, frequently sung — 

" 1 am thinking all the while, 
When will my summons come," 

Also — 



11 Jerusalem, my happy home, 
O, how I long for thee," &c. 



He said, "lam not going to die, I am only going to sleep. It is 
not death but life." Passed a restless night. 

November 17. He wished he had a stenographer, to whom he could 
dictate a few dying messages to some of his friends, especially to some 
impenitent relatives. I asked him to whom he wished to write. He 
mentioned several, saying, " I wish you to say to them individually, 
from me, that it will be a dark and dreadful hour, if they come to the 
valley of death without Christ ; and that I beseech them to turn to God, 
and never rest till they have the evidence that their sins are forgiven." 
To a Christian relative whom he named, he wished me to say, " I beseech 
her always to bear the cross, and then I have the fullest confidence, I shall 
meet her in heaven. Tell her to say to her mother, (a lady nearly 
ninety years of age,) that I have never in all my life experienced any re- 
ality that was more positive and certain than the Christian's hope, and I 
beseech her not to rest until she has obtained that hope." 

He had frequently conversed with little Julia about leaving her, and 



• 



DAVID MARKS. 457 

often prayed with her. At one time, he said to her: " I shall soon be 
gone, and your dear mamma will be very lonely and feel very bad, and 
she will sometimes go with you and visit my grave. I want you to be 
very good and kind to her and comfort her all you can." He gave her 
a Bible and two hymn books, and wrote in them, after her name, " Pre- 
sented by her dying father." Prof. Finney called. He took his hand 
and with tears said, " Brother Finney, O I am glad that never for the 
sake of interest have I avoided preaching the truth and standing up in 
defence of great principles. What comfort it gives me." He often ex- 
pressed great thankfulness for having been permitted to be carried 
to the chapel and the opportunity he there enjoyed of speaking for 
God. 

November 20. His voice began to fail. He tried to sing, but finding 
he could not, he smiled very sweetly and said : " Soon I shall have new 
lungs." The day following was worse, suffered much from suffocation, 
said he should soon choke to death, or rather choke into life. Was much 
distressed till midnight. 

November 22. He was more comfortable. He longed to go where 
he could do something for God. Prof. Finney said to him — " Never in 
your life were you doing more good than you now are. You are preach- 
ing all the time. The people here are running in to hear what you say, 
others are inquiring of them, and you ought not to feel that you are do- 
ing nothing. Are you not willing to remain where you are a hundred 
years, if it should be the will of God?" After a moment's pause, he said, "I 
never thought of such a thing before, but certainly I would." After- 
wards he said, " That was a hard question — I answered yes, because 
for many years I have been resolved to have no will but the will of 
God." 

Mr. Belden from Amherst called to see him. He wept, and as he 
took him by the hand, said, " O how I love you. O that you had this 
anchor to the soul that I have. You have been kind to me. Your 
house has been a pleasant home. I cannot bear the thought that we 
shall not meet again. My coffin and shroud are ready and waiting for 
me, and I am going to my happy home. O, will you try to meet me in 
heaven?" Mr. B. wept profusely — said he would. 

November 23. He was very weak and hoarse. Taking Prof. Fin- 
ney's hand, he said, " how I love you. How happy we shall be 
when we meet in the spirit- land, where the watchmen shall see eye to 
eye, where there shall be no more pain." " And," said Prof. Finney, 
" where we shall run to see each other, die no more." " O," said he, 
" this has been a sweet life to me, I think it will be a sweet death, and 
it will be a sweet heaven." He was anxious for a speedy release, said 
that never did any one more intensely long to lie down and sleep than 
he longed to go to his long, sweet home. 

November 24. Was very languid and. greatly exhausted — prayed 
that he might depart — said that angels were waiting at the portals of 
heaven to receive his spirit. Observing him looking very earnestly round 
the room, I asked him what he was looking at. " I was trying to see 
whether I could see angels." Said I, " You have said much about an- 
gels visiting you. What do you mean by it ? Have you actually seen 
them?" He replied, " Not with my natural eyes, but with an eye of 
39 



458 MEMOIRS 0$* 

faith. I knoio they are here. They are around my bed and in rriy 
room." 

Mr. Willard called. Taking his hand, he said, " I have loved you 
much. Sweet has been our acquaintance. 0, if you can see it duty, 
preach the gospel. Do all the good you can. I have been thinking 
over the toilsome labors which have literally worn me out at the age of 
forty ; and the remembrance of the particular efforts I have made, through 
storms and fatigue, to preach the gospel to poor sinners, look to me now 
as the brightest spots of my life. Often, to reach my appointments, I 
have rode or walked without a dry thread about me, and in that state 
gone into congregations and preached." 

He talked some time with me, advising me what to do for the future. 
Among other things, he said, " I charge you, don't let your affection for 
me keep any of my clothes that you can dispose of in any manner to 
be useful to you, or to others. In my view, it would be a species of idol- 
atry." 

After a few moments, seeing me weep, he repeated : " Our light 
afflictions which are but for a moment, shall work out for us a far — 
more-^exceeding — and eternal weight of glory. O what language ! 
What a combination of words ! How expressive ! What ideas ! far 
—more — exceeding — and eternal— 'Weight — not a quantity but WEIGHT 
of glory ! No mere rhetorician, no uninspired man, ever wrapped up 
so much meaning in so few words. I would not rob you of one star 
in your crown by wishing your sufferings less. God will sanctify them 
all, I know he will." 

Professor Finney called and inquired about his mind. He said 
it was hard work for him to think much. Prof. F. remarked he had 
been expecting his mind to fail. He replied, " I have always felt a 
great horror of being deranged in my last moments, but now I feel per- 
fectly willing; for," he added with great emphasis, " all is safe." 
Two or three hours after this, his mind began to wander, and the use of 
his faculties rapidly failed. Passed a very distressed night. 

November 25. Weaker than ever, was greatly distressed, thanked 
God for it, — said, " Home ! home ! home ! Hallelujah !" — sung 

" Cease, fond nature." — 

He smiled continually, and bore his sufferings with a meekness and 
patience that seemed almost sublime. 

He dictated the following letters. The first was addressed to a min- 
ister. 

" Dear brother, — I expect some to get home to-day — to my sweet, 
long home. I hope you will yet meet me there, but as I had not 
strength to converse with you as I wished when you called, I want to 
dictate to my wife a dying message for you. I have for the twenty-five 
years of my ministry borne a pointed rebuke against sin, even the sins 
of my dearest friends, perfectly regardless of personal interest, for I 
have feared God ! 1 knew I was going to the judgment. This has 
caused me enemies and opposition, but now, in my dying moments, the 
joy it gives me is inexpressible. I have often been personal and said 
* Thou art the man,' and O the peace, the peace, the peace, it gives. 
My garments are clear from the blood of souls. I want to say to you in 
the utmost love : # * * Stand up in defence of great prin- 



DAVID MARKS. 459 

eiples. Do right and the God of peace will be with you. May God 
make you a holy and efficient minister, that shall have many souls in 
your crown. Farewell till we meet above. 

David Marks. " 

[To the December term of the Lorain quarterly meeting.] 

11 Dearly beloved brethren : — 

Before this reaches you, I shall be in heaven with Christ and 
glorified spirits around God's burning throne. I go rejoicing with joy 
unspeakable and full of glory. The valley of death is not dark but 
light and shining, for God is with me. His everlasting arms are under- 
neath me. Dear brethren, I want you to meet me in that bright world. 
I thought I should labor and suffer a little more with you when I met 
you in the last session of the quarterly meeting, but my Heavenly Fa- 
ther hath need of me for the work of the spirit-land, for which he has 
perfectly fitted and trained me. Suffer a word of exhortation from your 
dying brother, the last he will ever say to you. Be fearless, bold, un- 
compromising in the defence of truth, while you exhibit all the meek- 
ness and gentleness of Christ. Love and cherish those faithful servants 
of God, who, regardless of your favors or frowns, dare to tell you your 
sins. Don't count them your enemies, for they are your best friends. 
O seek for holiness of heart, entire consecration to God, for sympathy 
with Christ. This is a dark world, full of selfishness and sin. God has 
need of you, my brethren, to aid in the work of saving souls. O how 
many around you, even some in your own families, are living without 
God ! and O, dreadful thought ! how many are at ease in Zion, their 
minds blinded by the god of this world, stumbling-blocks to the 
impenitent around them ! what a fearful experience awaits such 
souls! ! 

But, brethren, you cannot labor successfully for God unless your 
hearts are right — unless you are filled with the Spirit. O will you seek 
for a revival of God's work throughout your borders, first, by searching 
your own hearts faithfully, and getting them filled with the love of God, 
and then laboring with mighty prayer, and with earnest, faithful warn- 
ings of those around you who are away from God. 

My soul mourns over the trials among you, but it affords me great 
joy in these my last hours, that my Heavenly Father permitted me to 
meet you at your last session, and leave with you my testimony to 
great principles. O my brethren, never, O never, let satan so beguile 
you, that you shall attempt to muzzle the mouths of God's ministers. 
Let them do the preaching God bids them. They are His ambassadors. 

how often have brethren, and dear brethren, since I commenced in the 
ministry, wanted me to preach smooth things, begged me not to say 
any thing about masonry, temperance, missions, slavery, &c. saying if 

1 did, I would offend some who were my warm friends and who had 
contributed to my necessities. At such times, how has my spirit burn- 
ed within me, and I have felt to say, " Get behind me satan." The 
judgment and eternity would rise up before me, — my awful responsibil- 
ity to God and undying souls — and the truth upon those points, would 
be like fire shut up in my bones, so that my spirit had no rest till I had 
declared it whether men would hear or forbear, whether I had abun- 



460 MEMOIRS OF 

dance or lacked the necessities of life. Othe sweet peace I now enjoy. 
My garments are pure from the blood of souls. I have not shunned to 
declare the counsel of God. There is not a cloud between me and my 
Savior. The light of his blessed countenance constantly shines upon 
my soul. O how much this is worth in such an hour as this. Breth- 
ren, would you exchange it for the applause of all the mortal worms 
of earth 1 If you would, I would not. My soul is full. I was never 
before so happy. O the peace, the joy, the ecstacy, that God continual- 
ly gives me. Brethren, be faithful to God and truth, and this rich ex- 
perience will be yours in a dying hour. Farewell till we meet above. 

Yours for immortality, 

David Marks." 

November 26. He appeared to have his senses, but his mind was 
extremely weak, so that it was difficult for him to remember what he 
wished to say, after he commenced a sentence. Still he was inexpress- 
ibly happy. He said to Elder Knight, " 0, Brother Knight, preach, 
preach a Holy Ghost religion." 

Seeing me weeping, said he, " My dear Marilla, I shall love you as 
well, yes, better, when lam gone, than I ever have on earth, and I have 
no doubt but that my spirit will often visit you and minister to you, per- 
haps be your guardian angel." A little after noon, Prof. Finney call- 
ed. I told him my husband's unsuccessful attempt the day previous to 
write his name. He smiled and said, " I think I can write it to-day." 
A pencil and paper were handed him. He wrote very awkwardly, " Da- 
vidd," On being told of it, he clapped his hands, and with tears of joy, 
shouted as load as his hoarse voice would permit, " Bless the Lord, 
bless the Lord, Hallelujah. Am I so near my home 1 Can't write my 
name. O, bless the Lord." Seizing Prof. Finney's hand, he continu- 
ed, " O, bless the Lord, that I am so near home, home, sweet home." 
He then threw his arms round my neck — " O my dear wife, you have 
been a faithful, good wife ; we shall soon meet. You have been a faith- 
ful Christian — a great help to me in my. ministry. You never held me 
back, never placed the least hinderance in my way. God will bless you." 
Said Prof. Finney to the by-standers — " Mark the perfect man, and be- 
hold the upright, for the end of that man is peace." 

He seemed remarkably affectionate and child-like. A barber shaved 
him . ( A colored man . ) He kissed him very affectionately , and looking up , 
said : " O, how I love you, God bless you." Several friends called. It 
seemed as if his heart burned with affection. He would kiss them, and as 
they were going out would say, ' ' I hate to have you go. " He expressed 
much concern about my health, requested some friends to watch over 
me, and frequently said : " Poor child ! Poor child !" 

November 27. Seemed very easy but extremely weak. Spoke in a 
whisper. Said little. Mrs. Professor Allen called, and asked for my 
signature to a petition, remonstrating against the annexation of Texas. 
Mr. Marks eagerly inquired, " May my name go on?" He was told 
that this petition was exclusively for ladies, but that there was a 
similar one circulating in the village for gentlemen, and if he wished, 
his name should go on that. He said, " I do wish it." One of his at- 
tendants promised him that it should be done. At every arrival of his 



DAVID MARKS. 461 

anti-slavery papers, he would ask me to see if there was any good 
news for God's afflicted, oppressed poor. The last that it is recollect- 
ed that he read was in an anti-slavery paper a day or two previous to 
this date. 

Professors Finney and Morgan called. Throwing his arms around 
Professor Morgan's neck, he said, " I have wanted to see you very 
much." Professor Morgan spoke of a certain Christian who said he 
would rather die and have his body laid in the grave, than be translated 
as Enoch was, because his Savior died and was buried. I asked him if 
he felt so. He said, " yes, if it be the Lord's will." The two fol- 
lowing days he said little, slept most of the time. 

November 30. Failed very fast. At night had no pulse. Slept 
most of the night. 

December 1. Slept very sweetly, reclining on pillows in his easy 
chair. About eight o'clock, A. M. Professor Finney called. I arous- 
ed him, but as he took no notice of him, I inquired, " Do you know 
who that is?" He smiled and said, " Yes, I do. It is my brother Fin- 
ney," and immediately fell asleep. As Professor Finney was about to 
leave, I tried to arouse him again ; and as he saw him going out, he 
whispered, " Farewell," which was about the last word he was heard 
to say. When spoken to afterwards, sometimes he would answer 
" Yes," or " No," at other times would only smile. A little before 
noon, he made a signal to be laid on his couch. His attendants attempt- 
ed to remove him, but it distressed him so much, that he desired to be 
set back in his chair, when, with a sweet smile, he fell asleep almost 
instantly. He continued to sleep as quietly as an infant till about half 
past four o'clock, P. M., when he made another signal to be removed to 
his couch. As he was set down on the bed, a change was perceived. 
I took his head on a pillow, he placed one hand under his head, while 
little Julia, weeping and sobbing, took the other. His eyes rolled back, 
in his head, he breathed hard four or rive times, and then, without a 
struggle or a groan, or even one gasp, all was still. He w^as gone ! 
His spirit had soared on angel wings. 

December 2. Professor Dascomb, assisted by Doctors Steele and 
Boyce, made a post mortem examination, which they reported as fol- 
lows : 

" A post mortem examination of Elder Marks, twenty -four hours after 
death, exhibited the system generally in a dropsical state. 

The cavity of the chest contained several pints of water. The heart 
was enlarged, and together with the membrane lining the cavity of the 
chest, presented indications of chronic inflammation. 

The cavity of the abdomen contained about two gallons of w T ater. 
The liver and spleen were both much hardened by disease, especially the 
latter organ. The disease of these organs was undoubtedly of long 
standing. Extensive adhesions were found about the kidneys, and in- 
deed the organs in this cavity generally bore strong marks of the rav- 
ages of chronic inflammation. The inner coat of the stomach, espec- 
ially, had been in a state of universal inflammation. 

The external dropsy, or the effusion of w T ater into the cellular tissue, 
was confined to the body and lower limbs, the head and arms being quite 
free from it. 

39* 



462 MEMOIRS OF 

The lungs had a more healthy appearance than any of the other in- 
ternal organs.' ' 

December 3. About one o'clock, P. M., his corpse was removed to 
the new brick meeting house, which was the first ever carried w r ithinits 
walls. Several brethren and sisters followed in the procession as mourn- 
ers. Professor Finney preached from the text Mr. Marks had suggested. 
Professor Cowles, editor of the Oberlin Evangelist, briefly reported the 
sermon as follows, with the exception of a few passages which were 
omitted, and which have since been supplied by Professor Finney.* 

SERMON. 

Text — 1 Tim. 4:7. " Exercise thyself rather unto godliness." 
In discussing the subject presented in the text, I shall consider, 

I. The spirit of the injunction it contains. 

II. The conditions of obeying it. 

III. The reasons for the injunction. 

I. Taking into view the whole of the verse of which the text is a 
part, it is obvious that there are two prime ideas involved in the spirit of 
the injunction: — namely, 

1. A caution against giving attention to things that are idle and profit- 
less. By " profane and old wives' fables," Paul may have referred 
to the doctrines of the Rabbins, than which nothing can well be more 
worthless and ill befitting a sensible and Christian man who has the gos- 
pel to preach to perishing men. Take heed, Paul would say to his son 
Timothy — take heed that yon be not ensnared by any reading, or any 
legends of tradition which can only amuse without instructing, and 
therefore waste time without profit. Let " old wives' fables" alone. 
A man of God to be thoroughly furnished must store his mind with 
better things than those. If thou wouldst keep thyself pure, take care 
to avoid such things. Fables and stories for amusement, fit only for 
such as are in their first or second childhood, will pollute your mind, 
and grieve away the Holy Spirit of Truth. From all such things turn 
away. 

2. Exercise thyself rather unto godliness. This is the more excel- 
lent way. Practice godliness ; — not only learn what it is, but put it in 
practice — bring it into your daily spirit and daily life. Godliness is be- 
ing like God. Of course the meaning of this precept is — become God- 
like. Adopt the spirit of Jesus your Master, and live a life like His. 
Exercise yourself in this. The word exercise seems to be an allusion 
to the ancient Elysian and Olympic games, in which various exercises 
were carefully practiced, to discipline the body for victory in the hour of 
conflict. The next verse sustains this allusion — " Bodily exercise 
profiteth little." Yet those candidates for contest in the games, 
shrink not from any severity of discipline — they keep their body under 
and are temperate in all things, — only to obtain a perishable twig of 
laurel. How much more should you exercise yourself to be like God, 

* It is due to Professor Finney to remark that most reporters have found it difficult to 
do him justice. On account of his rapid delivery, they have seldom been able to pre- 
serve his language, and present his thoughts in his own peculiar, bold, and lucid man- 
ner. 



DAVID MARKS. 463 

since the prize is an immortal crown of glory, and the profit is beyond 
measure great, both in this life and the next ? 

These two points then — (first avoid all diverting and polluting influ- 
ences, and, secondly, discipline yourself to become like God,) constitute 
the spirit of the injunction of our text. 

II. We pass to notice some of the conditions of obeying it. 

1. True and thorough regeneration — a new birth which transforms the 
moral character, causing old things to pass away and all things to be- 
come new. This is a change not merely of opinion, or of intellect, but 
of the heart. There is no beginning to exercise one's self unto godli- 
ness without this change. This change itself is from the image of sa- 
tan to the image of God. 

2. The baptism of the Holy Spirit. This is perfectly indispensable to 
success and even to diligent effort. The being like God, which is re- 
quired and implied in exercising one's self unto godliness, demands a 
deep study of God and of godliness. But none will ever learn God 
except as taught by the Spirit. And none will exercise themselves in 
this study and in the practice of living like God unless the Spirit of 
God mightily imbue their hearts. 

3. A deep and abiding sympathyimth God. There is substantial and 
rich meaning in this language. There is such a thing as having sym- 
pathy with God. Nay, every real Christian must and does have such 
sympathy—he enters into the feelings of the Deity— adopts the same 
great end of life,— has the same objects of supreme affection, so that 
heart beats in unison with heart. This is sympathy—such as man 
must have with his God. This is plainly involved in exercising one's 
self unto godliness. 

To obey this precept effectually, you must have so strong and deep 
a sympathy with God as shall, 

(1.) Overcome the love of promiscuous reading. By " profane" in 
the verse of our text is meant whatever is not sacred ; just as we call 
all history profane history which is not sacred history. The true spirit 
of the requirement therefore enjoins Christians to forego at least in gen- 
eral all profane reading, and certainly all that in the least interferes 
with exercising themselves unto godliness, No profane works are to 
be read or studied only so far as their reading and study will make you 
more like God, and thus help you in exercising yourself unto godliness. 
You must have so much sympathy with God as shall annihilate all rel^ 
ish for reading that tends not to make you like God. Nothing can be 
more certain than this. 

(2.) Again, so deep must be your sympathy with God that it shall 
quite overcome the disposition to useless speculation and vain philoso- 
phizing. There is a vast amount of this among men whose minds are 
more intellectual than spiritual, and who love the amusement of curious 
speculation more than the luxury of studying the depths of godliness. 
This state of mind must be changed. Those studies which furnish 
neither the head nor the heart with any thing really useful to God or 
man must be put away : — nay, you must have so vital a sympathy with 
God, that it shall quite eradicate that vile taste for things profitless, and 
implant a vigorous thirsting of soul after the better things of God. 



484 MEMOIRS OF 

(3.) So deep must be your sympathy with God that it shall destroy 
your love of popularity with men. Surely you must have enough of 
God to effect this, or you cannot in spirit obey the injunction of our 
text. You never can exercise yourself to be like God until you value 
his favor incomparably more than the favor of man. Indeed, according 
to the Bible, you cannot even believe, so long as you " seek honor one of 
another, and seek not the honor that cometh from God only." Plainly, 
you must have so much sympathy with God as shall overcome alike the 
love of applause and the fear of reproach — for while these prevail, you 
will do any thing rather than exercise yourself unto godliness. 

(4.) Of sympathy with God you must have enough to overcome the 
thirst for worldly gain. So long as this thirst bears sway in your heart, 
you surely cannot exercise yourself to be like God. You must be satis- 
fied with the comforts of life, and content with the awards of divine 
providence — content moreover to live by faith in God for future good, so 
as to have no anxieties except for the kingdom of God and his right- 
eousness. Else you cannot exercise yourself for the Christian strife. 

(5.) Your sympathy with God must be so strong as to overcome your 
love of ease. Those men of the Olympic games had to crucify their 
love of ease. So and much more must you if you would contend with 
principalities and powers, with the rulers of the darkness of this world, 
with wicked spirits in high places. So and much more if you would 
exercise yourself unto godliness. Did Christ indulge his love of ease, 
or did Paul 1 Have any of those men ever done so who have achieved 
much for God, or for their generation according to the will of God? 

(6.) You must have sympathy with God in such a degree as shall 
suppress a self-indulgent spirit. Even Christ pleased not himself — nor did 
Paul, nor have ever any of those men whose life and labors have blessed 
the world, and have secured the favor of God. No man can live for the 
end of self-indulgence, and yet do any thing great and good for God or 
for his race. 

(7.) Your sympathy with God must beget a self-sacrificing spirit, 
The doctrine of the gospel on this point is — " Present your bodies a liv- 
ing sacrifice unto God." All must be laid on his altar. He demands 
a whole burnt-offering. 

I have been struck with the exemplification of this, in the example 
which brother Marks has left us. Indeed, if this were the place, I could 
show, under each of these heads, how appositely each point is illustrated 
in his life and spirit. Seldom in any man have I seen the love of ease 
and of reputation so entirely subdued. He has often told me that he 
grudged the hours of sleep. He could not bear to suspend his labors 
for God long enough to take the repose which his physical and nervous 
system demanded. 

A man needs to have his heart so set upon his work as to beget a 
thirst after truth, and an intense desire to know what he shall do to hon- 
or and serve God. Unless a man has this spirit, he cannot do much for 
his generation. He must have enough of it to set his soul all on fire to 
get at the very foundations of those great principles which are involved 
in the salvation of our race. The men who would move the minds of 
the age must understand these things fundamentally. 



DAVID MARKS. 465 

Again, a man must have great honesty, and a child-like spirit, if he 
would attain the truth and avoid all error. " Except ye be converted 
and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of 
heaven." This was a most remarkable feature in the character of 
brother Marks. In illustration of it I may adduce one fact of his his- 
tory. He once fell into a snare in consequence of reading a book in de- 
fence of Unitarianism. It presented arguments which he did not then 
see how to answer, and his honesty was such that he could do no other- 
wise than to hold his mind in suspense and humbly seek for light. 
There stood the arguments which he knew not how to meet : he could 
not get round them or thrust them aside out of his way. It should be 
noted here that he was yet very young, and not extensively read in the 
abstruse things of divinity. He began to preach at the age of fifteen, 
and devoted so much time to preaching, as left little leisure for deep 
study in the more speculative departments of polemic theology. To re- 
turn. As his honesty and simplicity of character w r ere conspicuous in 
the way of his getting into the snare, so were they also in his way of 
getting out. He shrank not away from his ministerial brethren, afraid 
of their censure, and sensitive lest his orthodoxy should be questioned — 
No, he frankly laid before them all his difficulties. A father in the min- 
istry asked him to sit down with himself and read the Bible. They 
began with the first chapter of Paul to the Hebrews, and read 'on with 
no marked results till they came to the tenth verse. Here, said brother 
Marks, the aged father paused, laid his finger down upon it, and read 
it with such a tone of reverence and solemn emphasis, as made its truth 
flash in floods of light upon my mind. " Thou, Lord, in the beginning 
hast laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the works of 
thy hands." I now, said he, saw Jesus to be the supreme Creator in 
so strong and clear a view as showed me at once that I could no longer 
suppose him to have made the worlds by any delegated power. Thus 
his candor and honesty brought him promptly out of the snare, and are 
not less beautifully illustrated here than in his manner of holding up his 
mind when unanswerable arguments fell in his way. 

Once more, let me observe, you must have so much sympathy with 
God as will overcome ungodly ambition. Else you cannot live for God, 
for this ambition can never be blended with godliness. 

Again, an essential condition of obeying the injunction of the text is 
great love for spiritual labor, love for every sort of labor to which the 
Lord calls you. This has a most remarkable illustration in the case of 
our deceased brother. You know he has preached a great deal — few 
men of his years, if any, have preached so much. And he has loved 
this work. His love and thirst for his work have been all-consuming. 
It seemed to swallow up his whole soul. His economy of his time was 
most rigid. No man perhaps was ever more peculiar for this than he. 
You have seen him riding these streets in his little old wagon, or on 
horseback, and reading all along as he went, jealous lest even a moment 
should slip away unimproved. I have often gazed at him with admira- 
tion, as I have seen him, sometimes drawing lumber, and seated upon a 
board or upon the naked reach of his little wagon, so deeply engaged in 
reading, that, but for the fact that his little horse was so aged and gen- 
tle, I should have feared for his safety in riding w T ith no attention to his 



466 MEMOIRS OF 

driving. I have met him out of the village, riding in the same manner, 
so lost in reading as not to appear to know whether he was going or 
standing still. You would be surprised to know how rigidly his manner 
of spending his time was noted down — how carefully all his moments 
were measured out, and how scrupulous he was to see to it that every 
moment was well spent.* 

I only add further, that any man to comply with this requirement 
needs a most controlling and absorbing love for souls. Such a love for 
souls had Paul, and such had his great Master. 

III. I must next adduce some of the reasons for this requirement, 

1. This world is a place of training for the next. This is its chief 
business. The characters of men are here being moulded either to be 
like God or like the devil. All moral agents here are either preparing 
for those high scenes of usefulness and glory that are reserved for the 
saints ; or for the wailings, the blasphemies, and the despair of the 
damned. Now, be it well understood, if a man is not exercising himself 
unto godliness, he is not training for heaven. " Blessed be God," said 
brother Marks, " God has trained me for my work. I doubt not that 
when I get into eternity, I shall find that all my labors here, and all my 
love for my work, have been fitting me for a more glorious sphere of la- 
bor there. O, it will be so blessed to work for God to all eternity ! 
There I shall never tire, never wear out ; shall not need to stop to sleep 
or to eat — but may go on my unwearied and unretarded course forev- 
er!" 

2. The Apostle subjoins as another reason for exercising one's self 
unto godliness — For bodily exercise profiteth little. It is of small avail 
to chastise the body and discipline it as the ancient athletae were wont to 
do ; and all the usual results of physical labor now are of small account ; 
but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of all needed 
good here and of all possible good hereafter. 

3. It is indispensable to doing much in this world. No man will ever 
do much unless he accustoms himself to work with all his might, and 
sees to it moreover that his work be indeed exercising himself unto god- 
liness, laboring to become and be like God. Then something great and 
good will be done. 

4. This is indispensable to true peace of mind. A man may have an 
Antinomian peace of mind without it — a peace delusive and baseless, 
resting on that strange notion that Christ's righteousness imputed to us 
while we live in sin, avails for us, instead of Christ's righteousness 
wrought in us. How many such there are now, filling the church with 
numbers, with spiritual lethargy, and fatal delusion ! Ask such — Are 
you personally holy 1 O no, I know I am not ; but I trust in Christ's 
imputed righteousness. Are you indeed walking with God and living 
for God daily ? O, I do not expect to do that myself — I believe in an 

* For many years, Mr. Marks had been in the habit of keeping a most rigid account of 
the occupancy of his time. He always carried with him a little book, called his " Time 
Economizer," in which he daily charged himself with the twenty-four hours, and on re- 
tiring for the night, accounted for every moment as carefully as a miser w r ould reckon 
his dollars and cents. Several times during the last two years of his life, he attempted 
to lay aside this practice, thinking it had injured his health, but so powerful had the 
habit become, that its suspension affected him so unpleasantly that he would soon resume 
it as the least of two evils. 



DAVID MARKS. 467 

imputed righteousness. Christ has obeyed the law perfectly ; his obe- 
dience answers instead of mine. Thus a man may cry, peace, peace, 
and his conscience be quite at ease in his sins ; but assuredly unless he 
exercise himself unto godliness, he can have no solid peace here nor 
hereafter. 

5. It is indispensable to peace with God. It is absurd that God should 
be at peace with a man who is not holy ; — who does not exercise him- 
self unto godliness : and is not perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 
It is indeed a marvellous fact that men should thus pervert the gospel — 
should thus dream of being in such a covenant with Christ that God will 
accept them while they are living in sin. Is Christ the minister of sin? 
Did he come both to save his people from their sins, and also to quiet 
their consciences, and give them peace in their sins by his imputed 
righteousness ? What can be more absurd 1 It would not be easy to 
name a sentiment fraught with more mischief to the souls of men than 
this. 

Again, it is indispensable to salvation. No man can be saved who 
does not exercise himself unto godliness. It is the only consistent 
course. Every Christian professes to be a follower of Christ. Consis- 
tency therefore requires that he should be. 

It is indispensable to a right understanding of the spirit of the gospel, 
also to true spirituality of mind. Persons may talk about being spirit- 
ually minded ; but it is all a dream unless they exercise themselves unto 
godliness. Away with all such spirituality ! Perhaps they would im- 
mure themselves in a monastery, or resign themselves to mystic dream- 
ing, but unless they vigorously seek to live for God, and exercise them- 
selves to do all his will, it can avail them nothing. 

Again, this is the only comfortable course of life. There will indeed 
be many trials, but those who meet and endure them in the spirit of 
faith and patience can bear a full and glorious testimony that this is the 
only way of comfort. 

Let me add that this is the only course that is honorable to God, also 
that this is the only course of usefulness. I have known more than 
one poor woman, an invalid too perhaps, and unable to do any thing but 
pray and converse, and pour out the fullness of the soul on the great 
things of God's kingdom — such I have known who have done apparent- 
ly more good than almost any minister of the gospel. 0, it is a luxury 
to hear such persons recount the mercies of God towards themselves. 
In conversing with one of them not long since, a member of the church 
of which I was pastor when in the city of New York, I was greatly in- 
terested in the story of the good hand of God upon her, since I had seen 
her. She was brought up a slave until (I think) forty years of age. 
When a child, herself and two little brothers were sold into a most 
Christless and cruel family, I believe in the northern part of New Jer- 
sey, or in southern New York. She has informed me that they had no 
bed or covering whatever provided for them in the coldest weather in 
winter, — that they would lie down together upon the kitchen floor, and 
as the room grew cold, would get upon the hearth close together as pos- 
sible, and, to keep from freezing, would get more and more into the fire- 
place, until sometimes they were severely burned in their sleep. This is 
a specimen of her treatment when young. But God finally gave her lib- 



468 MEMOIRS OF 

erty and converted her soul. She is a cripple and an invalid, and has 
lived these many years by faith. It is always refreshing to meet her 
and witness her confidence in God. She does much for the cause of 
God in many ways. Although she is unable to w : ork, and lives wholly 
on the free-will offerings of her friends, yet she gives more in money to 
support the gospel, than many men of wealth. She knows how to draw 
upon the " Bank of Faith." She contributes regularly twenty-five 
cents every Sabbath to the support of public worship. This amounts to 
$ 13. a year. When I asked her how she obtained' it, she replied that 
she obtained it by faith ; that whatever she may need, she always lays 
by the first money that is given her from week to week, to give the next 
Sabbath to the support of the gospel. This amount is what she gives 
where she worships. To the mission, and to every good cause, she 
contributes ; and by visiting, conversation, and prayer, she effects 
much for the cause of Christ. There is another woman in New York, 
who, although entirely destitute of earthly goods of her ow r n, and con- 
fined these many years to her room, and most of the time to her bed, is 
a living example of the power of faith and prayer. She is also able, 
through faith, to contribute to every good cause, more in money, than 
is given by many wealthy professors of religion. These women, and 
other men and women like them, are full of faith and the Holy Ghost. 
They have learned to live by faith in Jesus, and when they open their 
mouths to speak of his love, you see that their souls are ravished, and 
that Jesus is indeed to them the chief among ten thousands. They have 
thoroughly exercised themselves unto godliness, and now they are bring- 
ing forth fruit unto God. 

Finally, all such and such only shall die the death of the righteous. 
If any of you have never known what this is by seeing a righteous man 
die, I would to God you might have witnessed the death-bed scenes and 
triumphs of brother Marks. There was a glorious illustration of the 
blessedness of dying the death of the righteous. 

I shall now conclude with some notices of the life, history and death 
of our departed brother. One general remark at the outset will have 
continual illustration as we proceed ; — he seemed to possess the charac- 
teristics of fulfilling- this great command — " Exercise thyself unto god- 
liness." Converted from sin at the age of ten years, he began to preach 
at the early age of fifteen, since which time his labors have been inces- 
sant. At the age of twenty-six, he published a Narrative of himself, at 
the instance of his friends, made up chiefly from his own diary. From 
this I shall take the liberty to make some extracts. It appears from 
this that his labors in the denomination of Free-will Baptists, to which 
he belonged, were almost unbounded. Probably no man living has done 
more for that order than he. When his labors commenced, twenty-five 
years ago, they were few — their preachers mostly illiterate, though dis- 
tinguished for their piety and zeal. They had no religious paper of 
their own, no Book Concern, no literary institutions. This accounts 
for the course brother Marks pursued with regard to his early education. 
He travelled and preached over the whole country from the Ohio river 
to the remote parts of New England — at the cost of immense and self- 
sacrificing labor, he, at length, with others, got up a Book Concern. 

He came here and located himself and family three years ago, mainly 
for the sake of improving his own education. Having commenced his 



DAVID MARKS. 469 

labors in preaching very young and with little education, he felt the 
need of it greatly, and seized the earliest opportunity to turn aside from 
his career of incessant preaching for this purpose. He had also collat- 
eral reasons. His health was already impaired, and he greatly needed 
rest. Moreover his acquaintance in this great western valley had shown 
him its immense importance in view of the future progress of Christ's 
kingdom. He saw that a great struggle of truth with error must take 
place on this field, and it would seem that his heart was set upon im- 
proving his education, that he might bear an active and vigorous part in 
its achievement. From some circumstances, I have supposed that his 
Baptist brethren have not fully understood his reasons for coming here. 
They may have feared that it was some ambitious scheme ; but nothing 
can be farther from the truth. He came here tc prepare himself for a 
great work in this great western battle-field of Zion. 

His diary shows that he was at one time greatly exercised on the sub- 
ject of sanctifieation. I have often observed that God seems to move on 
many minds independently of each other, at the same time. So it often 
happens when a great series of revivals is about to ensue ; you will find 
Christians moved in various parts of the country simultaneously, and so 
far as we can see without any concert or communication with each oth- 
er. So the Lord led brother Marks to inquire on this subject, at the same 
time that other minds in other Christian denominations were also inquir- 
ing, yet without concert with each other. 

In his diary for February 20, 1828, he writes : — 

" On the way to Middlesex my mind was impressed with the neces- 
sity of salvation from all sin. The commandment of the Lord Jesus, 
Matt. 5:48, ' Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heav- 
en is perfect ,' came with power into my soul. And, remembering the 
declaration of the Apostle, 1 John 5:3, ' His commandments are not 
grievous, 1 my unbelief fied away, and faith said, ' God's ways are 
equal, and his requirements just.' 'Whosoever therefore shall break 
one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be 
called the least in the kingdom of heaven.' Matt. 5:19. Then the fol- 
lowing queries arose : i If he shall be least, who practices and teaches 
contrary to the least of Christ's commandments, what will be the fate of 
him who not only violates, but teaches contrary to the greatest com- 
mandment ? And what commandment is greater than this, to be perfect 
even as our Father in heaven is perfect ? How then dare I, a vessel of 
the Lord's sanctuary, that ought to be holy in body and in spirit, live in 
sin? — and, like satan, bring Scripture to justify my iniquity, or screen 
my guilty conscience ? When I preach to sinners that they should ' re- 
pent,' do they not quote the words of Christ to justify themselves, 
; Without me, ye can do nothing?' ' And were I to preach to Chris- 
tians that they should he ' perfect,' would they not say, ' There is not 
a just man upon earth, that doeth good and sinneth not?' After re- 
flecting on the above queries, the conviction settled into my soul, as if 
from heaven, that these Scriptures are as unjustly misapplied as that 
quoted by the tempter, Matt. 4:6, 'Cast thyself down : for it is writ- 
ten, He shall give his angels charge concerning thee,' &c. Now it is 
certain that satan did act himself in reciting this text, that he seemed to 
have holy Scripture directly to the point that he wished to gain. So, alas ! 
40 



470 MEMOIRS OF 

it is a fact, and my blood chills at the reflection, that sinners, and even 
saints, often quote Scripture as satan did, and make an application equally 
erroneous, to justify their living in sin. * And thou, my soul, be hum- 
bled exceedingly before God ; for, alas ! thou also, since Heaven forgave 
thee all, hast recited and applied Scripture to justify thyself; as though 
those who are redeemed from sin could not help living in sin ! Hast 
thou found that the death of Christ was not sufficient to enable his chil- 
dren to become like Nathaniel, ' An Israelite indeed, in whom is no 
guileV O be thou abased exceedingly, for thou hast applied the word 
of God like unto satan, to content thyself without entire victory over 
sin. How vain was thy thought, that death, the offspring of sin, should 
in any way save thee, or fit thee for heaven. If the blood of Jesus have 
not the cleansing power to perfect thee for glory, how shall death fit 
thee for the better world?" From these reflections, I sunk into noth- 
ing before God, and turning aside into a wood, I fell on my face and 
called on the Lord ; and, blessed be his name, I felt resolved in his 
strength to strive to live without sin, and * follow the Lamb whitherso- 
ever he goeth.' " 

Those of you who were acquainted with the deceased, know that he 
entered most heartily into all the great Reforms of the age as soon as 
their respective subjects came fully before his mind. In respect to those 
reforms, he has no doubt done much for his denomination. It is an in- 
teresting fact, that they are now remarkably harmonious on all these 
points, more so than almost any other denomination in the land. 

This denomination has enjoyed a rapid growth and a very unusual de- 
gree of prosperity, no inconsiderable share of which it is believed those 
who best know will ascribe to his influence and labors. It has indeed 
had many other able and faithful ministers, yet his labors have' been 
immense, and in the main very successful. The body of Free-will Bap- 
tists, which numbered about ten thousand when he entered the ministry, 
is now said to number sixty thousand, and to have not far from one 
thousand ministers in its connexion. 

He was a man of great uprightness of character, as all know who 
have had any business with him. He was most scrupulously accurate 
in all his dealings, careful to pay every cent which was righteously due, 
and expecting a similarly equitable course from those with whom he 
dealt. Yet obviously the spring of this was not in his case avarice, but 
genuine uprightness of character. 

As another instance, I will mention that he called on me once this 
fall , and wanted me to attend to a little matter between him and another 
individual. But he would not tell me any part of the story lest he 
should prejudice my mind. He wished me to hear both sides at once, 
and hear his own statement in presence of the other party concerned. 

I have already alluded to the fact that for many years he counted 
sleep a burden, and grudged even the moments which he must lose 
from his Master's work in this repose of nature. When I first became 
acquainted with his state, I said to him — You must sleep. It is your 
duty to your God and to your generation. You are almost worn out, 
but you are too young to close up your labors yet. Sleep enough may 
restore your system, and you may yet live to do much more for your 
Master. I faced him down in it, and was earnest and decided with 



DAVID MARKS. 471 

him. I said, it is impossible for you to live so, and what a pity that you 
should die an old man while yet young. He received it kindly, and 
tried to sleep a great deal more ; but, as sometimes happens, tried so 
hard that he could not sleep. It was in his heart to do all known duty. 
The spirit was willing — the flesh weak. The fact was, his whole sys- 
tem was upon the strain. His mind and whole nervous system were in 
a state of the utmost tension. The ardor of his spirit, glowing through 
his kindling eye, and every thing about him, spoke a soul in most sol- 
emn earnest. His soul indeed was grown too great and too mighty for 
his poor broken body. I admired and revered his most devout zeal for 
God and souls, and seldom, if ever, have I been blessed with the ac- 
quaintance of one whose presence and spirit were at all times so re- 
freshing to my soul, as were brother Marks', and yet so loud a rebuke to 
my comparative want of self-denying zeal during much of my ministerial 
life. I always found myself benefited by his society. I feel that it 
would have been a great favor had my Heavenly Father suffered him to 
abide at Oberlin as long as he anticipated. But brother Marks, though 
young, comparatively, in years, being only forty, had lived long in the 
actual results of his labors. He had performed more than the usual 
work of a hundred years. It was impossible without a constant miracle, 
that he should live under such a weight of exciting and exhausting la- 
bors. His mind, since I have known him, has been like a powerful 
steam engine in a frail and broken vessel, crowded with terrible and self- 
destructive speed through an ocean of stormy waves. This figure has 
repeatedly presented itself to my mind, when I have seen or thought of 
him. I have thought brother Marks will soon go to pieces, unless he 
abates his speed. It was plain as noon-day, that his ardent soul was 
tearing its frail tenement all in pieces. Bat rest was out of the ques- 
tion with him. As I said, when I faced him down, I insisted that he 
should rest ; but so great and irrepressible was the ardor of his soul, 
that the effort he made to keep still, cost him more than to let his zeal 
for God have all the vent that his frail body could from day to day sus- 
tain. I have regarded myself as peculiarly blessed in that providence 
which made me more particularly acquainted with brother Marks, than 
many of our brethren here, who, since his death, have expressed their 
grief that they had not sought more intimacy with him. Many here can 
attest the truth of my testimony in regard to what he was, and many 
more might have done so, but for the fact, that we are all so pressed 
with labor, and brother Marks was so truly a modest and unobtrusive 
man, that those who knew him well, must have been providentially 
brought into contact with him. This was my lot, and I can truly say, 
that to me his memory is most sacred and beloved. All my acquain- 
tance with him was sweet and hallowed. He was at all times the 
Christian, and he is one of the few men with whom I have been at all 
intimate, of whom I can say, that 1 never saw any thing in his spirit and 
temper, and never heard anything from his lips, or saw any thing in his 
life to deplore. " The memory of the righteous is blessed." I love to 
think of him, for it does me good. It makes me feel my littleness. His 
countenance, all radiant with love, seems even now to smile and take on 
that affectionate and most earnest look, with which he used to meet and 
greet me. But my brother is gone ! My heart is sad]y joyful when I 



472 MKMOFKS OF 

remember that his work on <-:u-i h lb done, hie conflicts are over, and 

especially that Ins dying strife has ceased. Death has no more to «Io 

wiili him. He lives forever. Do not let us conceive of lum as to i>e 

carried and left in yonder grave-yard. O no, he is beyond lh<' reach <>l 

death and the grave. We nlay carry the Grail tabernacle in which he 

lived, as we might carry the clothes he won;, and leave then m the 

grave. But brother Marks will not bo there. No, there is no dark, 

cold, damp ;;rave lo him, hut, bathed in I lie sunlight of he:i.\ en, he wall.: 
the golden streets, and ga90B upon the unliable and unsullied <>loii< 
that surround him forever. What a. contrast . ! A lew days ago we 
saw lum dragging ahout, with a body crushed and broken, racked with 
pain, and lunhs swollen and heavy with dropsy, hut with a soul all fresh 
and energizing almost to a miracle in so poor a hody. But now, could 
we draw aside the veil, and hehold hnn lost in wonder and admiration, 
standing m the effulgence of heaven's "lories, and surveying the mint 
lerahle vvomlers of his Savior, and of his palace with its myriads of 
mansions for his saints, we should rejoice to leave him there, and haw 
no wish to bring him hack again to earth. 

It may have heen supposed by his people at. a distance from us, I hat. 
since became here he has relinquished his preaching loo much, and giv- 
en himself uj) too much to study J but in this, if such has been linn 
view, they are mistaken. lie has by no means relinquished his labors 
among the chinches faster than he was compelled lo by bis waning 
strength. His labors abroad a. part of the time, have been very great, 

particularly in assisting In getting into operation a high school at ('hos- 
ier, («eauga, ( 'o. Ohio. It. seemed to be his meat and drink to labor in 
the gospel. I'Y.w men can say with more truth than he, " The zeal of 
thine hoUBe hath eaten me Upt It had eaten up the very energies of 

life from his system. 

f Professor Kinney here read much of the memoranda of hi.^ 
Conversation during Ihc, last days of bis life. | 

Brother Marks said to me during his sickness, that he wanted the 

ministers in his connexion to hold up sanctiflcation, and to Lrvi it, 

to live it forth in all their daily life. I long, said he, to go among 
them, and ur«M' upon them this great duty and responsibility, but if 
I mat not have Strength lo do it, I hope yon will do it by your preach- 
ing in my stead. 

As I Visited him every day, I conl inna lly observed that he seemed lo 
rejoice in every fresh symptom of approaching death. Especially 

this manifest when his stomach failed so that he could not receive and 

digest food. This was a glorious signal that the time drew near when 
be might gO home. 1 1 is wife at one time remarked lo him — " Yon ap- 
pear so little changed in your stale of mind from what I have usually 
seen you, that I cannot realize that, you are so near your end." He re- 

Idied — Why should I appear changed before dying 1 Ever since you 
lave known me, I have lived in the near view of death, ready each day 
to depart and be w ith ( 'hrist. 

When he found that he could no more write his own name, his soul 

med to be in ecstacy. Not one of his friends around him could rt 

tiaiu from tears, but bis soul seemed to be radiant v\ith the glories of 






DAVID MARKS. 473 

heaven. He felt the Christian's hope to be the most substantial reality 
that can be known on earth. O, it has been a luxury for me and many 
other friends to see him day after day triumphing over death, and show- 
ing how easy a man may die, if he has only lived right. Then he has 
nothing to do but to wait in patient hope till the hour of release shall 
come. So died our departed brother. " Mark the perfect man and be- 
hold the upright : for the end of that man is peace." 

Professor Finney, at the close of his sermon, said, — 

" I wish to commend sister Marks to your sympathies. Few women 

ever met with such a loss, for few women ever had such a husband to 

lose." 

The coffin was opened beneath the pulpit, and while the congre- 
gation was passing around to take the last look of his countenance, 
joyful even in death, it was said that Professor Finney gazed al- 
most constantly upon it, and remarked to those standing near him : 
" Did you ever see such a corpse ? What a countenance ! How 
lovely ! How smiling ! How easy it is to die right, if we live 
right. ,, The coffin was closed, and his body was then borne to its 
last quiet resting place. 

Nothing could exceed the kindness and attention of the people of 
Oberlin during his last illness. It seemed as if every individual in 
the village, from the members of the college faculty to the poor 
colored man, delighted to show him kindness. For about four weeks 
previous to his death, lie had four men as watchers by night and 
two by day, besides considerable female assistance. A committee 
was appointed to procure these attendants, so as to have no failure, 
and to relieve his family from care on this point. Professor Fin- 
ney called almost invariably twice, and sometimes three times, a 
day. Mr. Marks was greatly affected by this kindness, and in the 
full gushings of his heart, would say, " O how much more than a 
cup of cold water is this." The notice of his death, accompanied 
by the funeral sermon and extracts from the memoranda of his last 
conversations, was first thus announced in the Oberlin Evangelist, 
in an article prefatory to the sermon : 

" Elder David Marks, whose recent death among us gave occasion to 
the following sermon, had greatly endeared himself to us by his unas- 
suming and great piety — by his beautiful simplicity of character, and by 
his intense industry and devotion in his Master's cause. His last days 
w r ere a most glorious triumph of Christian faith." 

Subsequently, his death was announced in the Morning Star, 
which was clad in mourning. The article in the Star contained the 
following : 

" Brother Marks had long occupied a prominent position in our de- 
nomination, and exerted an extensive and salutary influence, and in his. 
death we have suffered a great loss. He had been one of the assistant 
editors of the Star for nearly twelve years, and his contributions have 
40* 



474 MEMOIRS OF 

added much to its usefulness and interest. Who will fill the vacancy 
which his removal has left in our Zion? ' Help, Lord ; for the godly 
man ceaseth ; for the faithful fail from among the children of men.' " 

The funeral sermon, memoranda of his conversation, his farewell 
address to his brethren, and his last address in Oberlin chapel, 
were also published in the same number of the Star, and were read 
with the greatest avidity. The addresses were as follows : 

ELDER DAVID MARKS' 

Farewell Address to the Free-will Baptists and the world, written 
front his mouth in short hand, Oberlin, Ohio, Nov. Qth< 

BY CHARLES PENFIELD, STENOGRAPHER, 

Believing my work to be about done on earth, and being about 
ready to depart and be with Christ, I desire to say a few words to 
my brethren, old friends, and the world, and being unable to write ? 
I have sent for a stenographer to report from my mouth. 

In times past I have looked upon death with a great natural 
dread ; and although I then knew that I had not need of dying 
grace, I could not understand how I should be able to meet it with 
composure ; but, as I approach the dark valley, Glory to God ! I 
can say with the Psalmist, " Though I walk through the valley and 
shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for thou art with me." The 
hope of the Christian, instead of being deceptive or failing as the 
trying hour approaches, I find becomes stronger and stronger, like 
an anchor to the soul sure and steadfast; and the evidences of 
the truth of the Christian religion, instead of growing dim, bright- 
en as the curtain begins to drop. Unlike the hope of the infidel 
that deserts him, and is like a spider's web in the giving up of the 
ghost, every circumstance, as this world recedes and the next heaves 
in view, serves but to confirm the blessed truth, that man was made 
to be religious. It is with the sweetest delight now when I expect 
to preach no more that I review the evidences of the Christian relig- 
ion, and to me it seems strange, how a sane mind can examine even 
the external evidences of Christianity, and not yield assent to their 
truth ; and I would seriously put the question to the infidel philos- 
opher, how it was possible for sixty and six such books as compose 
the Bible to have been written in different ages and by something 
like forty different authors of every variety of rank, from the phi- 
losopher to the shepherd, from the man of wealth to the peasant, 
from the king on his throne to individuals in the humblest sphere 
of life, with no possible combination with each other, or concert at 
deception, and yet" the material facts in these books being such as 
they are, be a forgery or untrue ? For example, who can believe 
that it was possible for any impostor to make the whole nation of 



DAVID MARKS. 475 

Israel believe, without the exception of an individual, that the re- 
volting, and mysterious rite of circumcision was divinely insti- 
tuted, unless the remarkable facts connected with the origin of that 
rite were absolutely undeniable ? What sane mind, free from the 
bias of prejudice, can seriously believe that a whole nation was 
persuaded without a dissenting voice to believe that they passed 
through the Red Sea miraculously, and to yield obedience to a bur- 
densome system of taxation and religion, had not this miracle been 
most clearly undeniable ? Nor are the facts recorded in the New 
Testament less conclusive in their authority as to its divine authen- 
ticity. For example, such was the inimical feeling of the whole 
nation of the Jews against Jesus Christ, so jealous were they of 
the introduction of any new religion in circumstances at all plausi- 
ble for its success, that no pains could have been spared to expose 
every possible imposture. The Christian church at its very com- 
mencement was based on the testimony of the evangelists, and of 
course the great facts of their testimony were familiar to every 
professed Christian, and equally open to the investigation of their 
enemies, both Jews and Pagans. How, then, is it possible, that it 
could then have been published that five thousand were fed by 
Christ miraculously in a wilderness place, where several tons of 
provisions must have been used — and the imposture, if it was one, 
not have been detected ? Again, if the facts related in the case of 
Lazarus being raised from the dead were not true, how is it possible 
that there should not have been some one in the two millions of the 
nation that assembled at the yearly feast, to disprove the history in 
the case, and thus arrest the preaching of Christianity ? Again, 
if the vail of the temple was not rent, and darkness did not cover 
the face of the whole earth from twelve to three in the afternoon, 
how is it possible that the Christian church should make myriads 
of converts, including many of the most philosophic minds, in the 
very vicinity where every person must have known that these prin- 
cipal facts on which Christianity was based were absolutely false ? 
Again, what possible motive could the twelve apostles have had to 
sacrifice every worldly prospect, and every possible selfish aggran- 
dizement, to testify that they had seen Jesus Christ raised from the 
dead ; and had witnessed the prints of the nails in his hands and in 
his feet ? What could possibly have induced them in defence of 
this testimony to suffer the loss of all things and crucifixion at 
last, unless they had known these facts to be true, and by them have 
been supported in the full assurance of eternal life ? 

Nor are the internal evidences of the divinity of the Christian's 
hope less conclusive. An intimate acquaintance with man shows 
clearly that such is the structure of his mind, that no earthly or 
scientific acquirements can satisfy it or fill its capacities. Though 



476 MEMOIRS OF 

it grasp Wealth, learning, power, beyond all limits, it is still like 
the troubled sea that cannot rest, and the soul instinctively inquires, 
" Who will show us any good ?" But Christianity is as really 
adapted to the wants of man's intellect, to satisfy his mental capac- 
ities, as natural food and drink are adapted to the natural necessi- 
ties of the body. But to the soul that does not know God by ex* 
perience, the nature and strength of the internal evidences of 
Christianity are unknown. The natural man receiveth not the 
things of the Spirit of God, neither can he know them, because 
they are spiritually discerned." And here is the glory and beauty 
of Christianity. It does not require the multitude of its disciples 
to become scholars and philosophers, in order to understand and 
appreciate the weight of its evidences. The little child, the illiter- 
ate, aged peasant that never learned to read, can have the holy 
anointing that teaches them all things — how to live and how to die, 
with far more consistency, composure and joy, than is obtained by 
the wise men of this world. 

Now, when the strength of my nervous system is exhausted, and 
by physicians and friends, I am admonished not to study or think 
laboriously on any subject, O how sweet it is to feel the divine wit- 
ness within my soul that God dwells within me, and to feel that 
there is not a dimming veil between me and heaven. As I ap- 
proach the dark valley, my hope grows sweeter and sweeter, my 
confidence still more firm, and there is a divine reality that is the 
farthest possible removed from the effect of imagination, excitement, 
or fanaticism. It scarcely seems to me like a mere hope. There 
is an assurance — a philosophical, a rational, a soul-felt, a divine as- 
surance, that I am but about to exchange the numerous and dearly 
beloved friends with whom I have formed an acquaintance within 
twenty-five years, for other friends in a happier clime, and that 
from these loved ones here, I shall be separated but for a little 
while, only to renew the union in circumstances where our joy will 
never be damped. When I commenced my ministry, I had a 
constitution of the strongest and firmest kind. Often have I rode 
thirty or forty miles in the sleet rains of winter, without an over- 
coat, without a dry thread upon me, and without taking a morsel 
of food, and felt not the slightest inconvenience. As I commenced 
preaching at the age of fifteen, the novelty of my boyhood often 
attracted large assemblies, which no house in their vicinity could 
accommodate ; consequently, from the age of fifteen to twenty-one, 
while my lungs were growing, I was constantly accustomed to 
speaking in the open air in the wind and sometimes in the rain, so 
that my lungs obtained a firmness probably exceeeding that of 
most men that have ever lived. Consequently, as my voice was 
strong and rarely ever was fatigued by use, the demand for its use 



DAVID MARKS. 477 

was very great ; and oft-times I spoke from three to seven hours a 
day for weeks and months in succession. This circumstance, (the 
unnatural developement or strength of my lungs,) has probably 
been the cause of my overlooking the fact that my nervous system 
had not equal strength. Thus I have used my voice almost inces- 
santly, until the nervous system has become wrecked, the vital en- 
ergies expended, and at the age of forty, I have the infirmities of 
one of ninety. 

During the first ten years of my labors in the ministry, my prin- 
ciples did not allow me to preach on contracts, or receive any thing 
that could bear any semblance to a salary, and rarely ever did I re- 
ceive a public collection. In this time, my travels were extended from 
the Ohio river to the Penobscot,, amounting to 42,353 miles, and 
during the same time I attended 3489 meetings, and most of these 
labors were in new sections of the country and among destitute 
churches. I supported myself mainly by extra labor and exertion, 
such as teaching school, and publishing and selling books. 

One result of the acquaintance thus formed with my beloved 
connexion in these labors, was, the conviction that unless some 
powerful instrumentalities should be introduced to perpetuate the 
ardent piety and intelligence of the early ministers and fathers of 
our denomination, a horrible backsliding would ensue, and the salt 
would loose its savor. The little value that the fathers of the de- 
nomination had attached to mere human learning, or to an unsanc- 
tijied education, had been misunderstood by many of our members, 
and emboldened them to despise all human learning. Yet I ob- 
served that often their children would read and study and keep 
pace with the intelligence of the age, consequently, their parents, 
with their views of learning, ceased to exert much religious influ- 
ence over the rising generation. A large number of our young 
people were accustomed to a course of reading and educational in- 
fluences, which, in my judgment, only tended on many points to 
turn them away from important truths. Indeed, I was pained to 
observe, that very considerable numbers of them were inclined to 
be sceptical, if not absolute infidels. These facts weighed like a 
mountain's weight on my soul, and I felt that to perpetuate the ex- 
cellent influences commenced by Kandall and his successors, some- 
thing must be done. At length, I became satisfied that no one 
measure could be introduced to our denomination to remedy the 
evil with more prospect of success than the establishment of a 
Book Concern, as the property of the denomination, to be under 
the control of its best men. Thus might the press speak out evan- 
gelical truth with a voice long, loud, and free, unshackled by per- 
sonal interest, and unawed by popular favor or frown, and God so 
baptized my soul into the spirit of the freedom of an evangelical 



478 MEMOIRS OF 

press, that I felt as though, if it were necessary, I would lay down 
even my life to establish such a press. Consequently, under the 
appointment of our General Conference, I consented to take the 
responsibility of General Agent for four years, in which time I be- 
came responsible for expenses and debts contracted in raising the 
Establishment to the amount of twenty thousand dollars. 

Several thousand dollars of these debts were in the form of 
bank notes in the Boston banks, which became due during the fear- 
ful times which followed the general bank suspension. The estab- 
lishment being in its infancy, and the borrowing of adequate sums 
being impossible, but two alternatives were presented — a failure, 
the dashing of the whole establishment, the bankruptcy of myself 
and several undersigners — or a desperate personal effort on my 
part to raise the funds by the sale of books. In these circumstan- 
ces, with the most intense interest, I sat down with my dear com- 
panion to count the cost. If I exerted my strength day and night 
to the utmost of my power with her aid, in the course of a few 
years we might possibly succeed in meeting the necessary payments. 
But the severity of the New England winters, especially in Ver- 
mont, New Hampshire, and Maine, might render the filling of suc- 
cessive appointments, (made in the closest connection without ref- 
erence to travelling or weather,) to supply our churches with books, 
receiving cash in hand — a most fearful task ! The result of these 
appointments was the collection of thousands of dollars which could 
not have been raised otherwise. But sometimes I was compelled 
to travel nearly whole nights in the severest weather, and often to 
allow myself but two or three hours sleep in twenty-four, for days 
in succession, and the result was four severe fits of sickness, which 
broke down my constitution and I have not seen a well day since. 
The vital principle has seemed to be disappearing in equal ratio, 
for the ten years that have since elapsed. 

In speaking of these things, I am obliged to say like Paul, " I 
speak as a fool." My object, however, is to bear testimony that 
the satisfaction I have enjoyed since I have been laid aside, and 
still enjoy in the uncompromising testimony of that Book Estab- 
lishment against intemperance, licentiousness, and slavery, and in 
favor of all the benevolent institutions which God in his providence 
has appointed to be the nurseries of the church, infinitely exceeds 
the pleasure I could derive from the firmest health and the pros- 
pect of yet preaching many years. And though I am now poor, 
and living on the kindness of friends, and my feeble wife, after 
sacrificing all selfish interests, and bending all her energies for 
these sixteen years to aid me in the services of the ministry, is 
about to be left destitute, still there is a sweetness of hope, and sat- 
isfaction in reviewing the past, which I am confident, that no mi- 



DAVID MARKS. 479 

ser nor person that has laid up money for himself in this world, can 
enjoy in view of approaching death. And, although we have ex- 
perienced some inconveniences from poverty, yet it has been noth- 
ing compared to the poverty endured by prophets, apostles, and Je- 
sus Christ. God has usually judged it best to give the things of 
this life to his children with a sparing hand. Nor is there blame 
to be attached to my brethren for our wants not having been more 
fully supplied, since had we judged it best to inform our friends of 
the extent of our necessities, they would undoubtedly have reliev- 
ed us. 

There is, I am confident, a very serious danger attending our 
Book Establishment, against which I wish to raise my dying, warn- 
ing voice. It is an inclination on the part of brethren and minis- 
ters to feel that the Book Establishment is well off and safe. I 
have watched this danger for years, and am convinced that it is 
serious and not easy to be removed. The disposition to delay pay- 
ments for the Star, to take books on commission, and use the mon- 
ey in case of exigency, is swelling the debts of the Establishment 
to an alarming extent, and unless brethren cease to take the leni- 
ty they have, unless the agents generally are more prompt and 
thorough in their collections, I consider the failure of the Estab- 
lishment as almost certain. But, my dear brethren, I beseech you 
to do all you can to avert such a calamity. 

As to my sentiments, they have undergone no material change. 
I die a Free-will Baptist, but I trust free from sectarianism. The 
freedom of the human will, a distinctive sentiment of our con- 
nexion, I am more than ever convinced is the true doctrine of sound 
philosophy and of the Bible. Nor is a little importance to be at- 
tached to this distinctive sentiment. It lies at the foundation not * 
only of all evangelical Christianity, but is the only sure basis of re- 
ligion itself. If God is a self-determining being, and made man 
in his own image, man is a self-determining being, and, as such, is 
responsible, and the subject of moral government. 

Another distinctive sentiment of our denomination, which Js; 
doubly dear to my heart, as I am about to depart to the spirit-Ian^ 
is, that genuine evangelical faith in Christ is the only bond of 
Christian fellowship — in other words, that Christians of whatever H| 
sect are one, and that we cannot carry out the principles of our re- 
ligion, as Free-will Baptists, without seeking to promote the inter- 
ests of all evangelical churches. 

As to another distinctive sentiment of Free-will Baptists, bap- 
tism, or the immersion of believers, I think it duty to say, that I 
fear that Baptists, as well as Pedo-Baptists, have overlooked or 
lost sight of the true meaning of baptism. As in case of pouring 
or sprinkling, the true idea designed by the Holy Ghost is lost sight 



480 MEMOIRS OF 

of, so those Baptists that deny the doctrine of entire sanctiiication 
and salvation from all sin, have equally lost the meaning of the 
rite. For, as in the primitive baptism there was a death and a 
resurrection, it is evident to me that by the rite God designed the 
convert to say to the world, that he is dead to all his former sel- 
fishness, and alive to every obligation of Christianity. Hence it 
seems to me that the rite of baptism, as practiced by Baptists or 
Pedo-Baptists, is of little use, unless the original design signified 
alone by the manner (which was an immersion and emersion) is 
kept in view. Hence the original rite, in its manner, should be 
meekly contended for and practiced with sole reference to the bless- 
ed and holy doctrine of death to all selfishness and life to all right- 
eousness. 

Another distinctive sentiment of Free-will Baptists, contended 
earnestly for by our fathers, is, that all religion without the bap- 
tism of the Spirit, the holy anointing, is vain. From this senti- 
ment, I feel there has been a practical and horrible backsliding. 
As a tree soon becomes old and dies, there seems to be a fearful 
propensity in all organizations to lose the innocence and purity of 
their infancy. O my brethren, I beseech you carefully and pray- 
erfully to avoid the spirit of backsliding in this respect. Some of 
our good aged men have had serious fears that the introduction of 
seminaries to the patronage of our denomination, would lead to a 
departure from dependence on the influences of the Spirit ; and in- 
cline our ministers and members to trust in the wisdom of this 
world. This fear should not be treated with contempt ; but, on 
the other hand, the fact must not be overlooked that men will be 
educated, that the sciences will be studied, and that they will exert 
a vast influence ; and the only question to be settled by intelligent 
Christians is, shall the schools be under a selfish influence, or a di- 
vine influence ? Shall the truths of science be taught for God, and 
subservient to a Holy Ghost religion, and an humble Christianity, 
or shall they be taught by selfish men in such a manner as to de- 
velope and cultivate all the selfishness of fallen nature ? In other 
words, shall the truths of science be made subservient to make the 
scholar like God, the author of all truth, or like the devil, who is a 
prodigy of intellect, without moral principle ? In my opinion, were 
Scripture views held by the church universally, and carried out 
with relation to the subject of education, the whole world would be 
converted in less than ten years. Literary aristocracy would be 
unknown, academies and colleges would be fields of perpetual revi- 
vals, and from these purified fountains a wave of salvation would 
sweep away every strong-hold of the devil, and fill the whole earth 
with righteousness. 



DAVID MARKS. 481 

For twenty years past, I have kept debt and credit as to my 
time, and accustomed myself to such diligence that rest has for 
years been a burden to me, except when exhausted nature has cried 
out for it. In thus closely taxing myself, I have lived out life while 
yet in my prime. Yet even from this I have learned one blessed 
truth, namely, that the soul when fully trained for the great work 
of the spirit-land, where sleep will not be needed, will have a love 
for labor that language can scarcely describe. Since I have been 
confined by sickness, my thoughts have glanced like lightning over 
the immense fields for Christian labor, and I have viewed with 
ecstacy the facilities which God has introduced to concentrate and 
make effective the labors of the church. Why did God confound 
human language at Babel, and by more than one hundred dialects 
split the human family asunder ? Why did he, by seas and moun- 
tains, lakes and rivers, cut up the whole face of the earth by barri- 
ers to separate the human family ? Surely, because he saw the 
selfishness of man would only use language and unbroken inter- 
course to form monopolies, which would effect their own ruin. 
Why for more than 4000 years was the gift of tongues withholden 
from the church ? Why for 5500 years was the use of the compass 
and the art of printing withholden from the world, and America, 
the most fruitful soil on the globe, unknown to the world ? Why 
was the application of steam, as now used in steam-boats, and on 
rail-roads, and in numerous other ways, kept back for 5800 years ? 
Surely, because God saw that the principles of his kingdom had not 
become sufficiently established to make these inventions and discov- 
eries turn on the whole to the production of a greater amount of 
good than of evil. But as soon as he saw principle, activity, and 
self-denial enough in the church, to make these discoveries on the 
whole subservient to his kingdom, in his providence they were in- 
troduced, and now the battle is coming between the two kingdoms. 
The time for the shaking of the heavens and earth has come. The 
whitening fields invite the attention of every lover of man, and ev- 
ery angel looks on with the deepest interest. The nurseries of the 
church are to be cultivated, such as Sabbath schools, Bible classes, 
Temperance, Mission, Moral Reform, the Tract, Bible, and Anti- 
slavery societies ; and while idolatry trembles on its throne, and 
the merchant-men of Babylon stand aghast, a mighty host of sanc- 
tified intellects are to go forth into all parts of the field, and labor 
until righteousness covers the whole earth. In the accomplish- 
ment of this work, no Christian has a right to feel little responsi- 
bility. Every man, woman, and child, that indulges hope of heav- 
en, is under the most solemn obligation to make the removal of 
every curse that sin has entailed on the world, and the extension 
of universal righteousness, the main, yes, the whole business of 
41 



482 MEMOIRS OF 

their lives. Every Christian should form the habit of having no 
work, wish, or will, except for God. Habits, as to food, drink, 
dress, and amusements, should only be formed, with express refer- 
ence to glorifying God. The education of children, the purchase 
of furniture, the size and expense of buildings, the arrangement of 
grounds and yards, the size of farms, all the investments of proper- 
ty, should be made without any reference to one's individual choice, 
taste, or inclination, except so far as the judgment directs that the 
will of God requires conformity to this. In other words, the Chris- 
tian has no right to live to himself. The one and soul-absorbing 
object of his whole life should be to know in what manner he can 
best glorify God, by removing the greatest amount of evil from the 
earth, and introducing the greatest possible amount of righteousness 
in its place. 

And, finally, my brethren, in conclusion, I entreat you, in the 
name of our Lord Jesus Christ, in view of the glory that is to be 
revealed at his appearing, to concentrate all the energies of your 
being, to introduce, spread, and perpetuate pure primitive Chris- 
tianity. 

My dear brethren in the ministry, remember that your calling 
is not only the most important, but the most honorable. To be 
embassadors for the great God, and to negotiate for immortal in- 
terests, is truly the highest work to which mortals can aspire. Let 
no difficulties, poverty, or reproaches, dishearten you ; but save all 
the souls you can. Let your testimony be a pure one, unawed by 
any and every selfish combination that can arise against you, and 
a rich reward will lie before you. 

Remember the poor, down-trodden, suffering slave, to whom the 
lamp of life is denied — that lamp which so gloriously gilds my 
pathway to the tomb. Bear an uncompromising testimony against 
that horrid system that chattelizes the image of God. O my 
brethren, " Remember those that are in bonds as bound with them." 
What a command is this ! Will you obey it ? 

My testimony against secret societies, such as Masonry, Odd 
Fellowship, Rechabites, &c., you have already had; but, dear 
brethren, I cannot forbear repeating, in this my dying hour, " Be- 
ware of secret societies." Let not your honor be united to them. 
Remember that to you, in a great measure, is committed the puri- 
ty of our churches. Ministers of Jesus Christ have nothing to do 
with such societies, except to expose their hollow pretensions, and 
guard the sheep from their devouring jaws. 

To those who have ministered to my necessities, and of whose 
hospitality I have been partaker within the twenty-five years past, 
I give thanks, hoping you will find mercy in the day of the Lord 
Jesus. 



DAYID MARKS. 483 

* And finally, brethren, Farewell ! be perfect, be of good com- 
fort, be of one mind, live in peace, and the God of love and peace 
shall be with you.' The whole family of God will soon be gather- 
ed together. There I trust we shall meet, complete in Christ, 
where separations will be unknown, and where our joy will be full. 

To the unbeliever, the Christless sinner, without God and with- 
out hope in the world, I wish to say — A fearful experience is be- 
fore you. To you it will be a doleful day when every earthly tie 
is broken, and every earthly hope has vanished, and you look across 
the dark valley without God and without hope. O, let me entreat 
you, while in health, to haste to Jesus Christ for refuge, and lay up 
a treasure in heaven. David Marks. 

ELDER DAYID MARKS 5 

Address in Oberlin Chapel, Thursday, November 13. 

REPORTED BY PROF. COWLES, EDITOR OF OBERLIN EVANGELIST. 

" Professor Finney announced to the assembly that it was uncer- 
tain whether brother Marks would survive his effort to address 
them, that he had been apprised of this, but notwithstanding was 
anxious to speak to them. He said Dr. Dascomb, [Professor of 
Physiology in Oberlin Collegiate Institute,] had just examined, and 
could find no pulse in one wrist, and only a little tremulous motion 
in the other. If he should die in the attempt, he wished the con- 
gregation to be calm, and not leave their seats. His friends around 
him would take care of him. 

Brother Marks said, in a brief introductory address, substan- 
tially as follows : 

' My dear friends, I feel to thank God that I have the prospect 
of addressing you once more, and for the last time. This has been 
the desire of my heart. The lamp of life has for some time been 
flickering in its socket ; and in the opinion of friends, I have but 
a few hours to live. I think I should have gone home to my Heav- 
enly Father last night, if He had not wished me to bear testimony 
for Him once more on the shores of time. I bless his name that I 
am spared and strengthened to render this last public testimony. I 
suppose my coffin is being made, and my grave-clothes are in a state 
of preparation. I wish the choir to sing a hymn that has been very 
pleasant to me for many years — a working hymn. [1000 Hymn, 
Christian Melody.] 

' Why sleep we, my brethren, come let us arise,' &e. 

After singing, brother Marks prayed, and then addressed the au- 
dience as follows : 

' My extreme weakness, and the distress of suffocation in conse- 
quence of the dropsical difficulty in my chest, and which is proba- 



484 MEMOIRS OF 

bly drowning my heart, has not allowed me to spend a moment in 
preparation for this meeting. Indeed, it has been extremely doubt- 
ful whether I should be able to meet you at all, so that I have not 
had much anxiety about preparation. Hence my remarks must be 
made ' off hand.' 

The first and leading thought on which I wish to dwell, is this, 
that God has not designed this place, and this state of existence, as 
our final home. I have neither time nor strength to enter into the 
evidence now. I can only throw out the idea for your reflection. 
As the prophet said, f Arise and depart, for this is not your rest, 
because it is polluted ; it shall destroy you even with a sore de- 
struction.' Micah 2:10. God has designedly fixed in our consti- 
tution and state, certain counteracting influences to wean us from 
the love of life. When we see our friends in the agonies of dis- 
solving nature, when we see the pallid countenance, the shaking 
frame, the quivering pulse, the gasping breath, the glassy eye, we 
are admonished of our own mortality ; we see, as it were in a glass, 
our future selves passing away from earth and earthly things. 
Even the sorrows and trials of life admonish us that this is not our 
rest. Now mark, if this is not our real home, how little interest 
should we take in the things of this life ? Suppose you were on a 
voyage to India to spend your life there, and should stop on some 
island for a single hour, how little interest you would take in the 
objects you might chance to see there, compared with the interest 
you would feel in every thing that related to your destined home ? 
Now, if we should live to the age of Methuselah, this would be 
nothing compared to eternity. Place the two in contrast, and how 
forcibly we must realize that eternity is every thing, and time in 
duration is nothing. 

And yet, on this little point of time, every thing in eternity is 
made to hang. All your plans and purposes, all your motives and 
actions, are giving shape and character to your eternal state. 
With what awful interest, then, ought we to look upon the motives 
that govern us here — upon the character we are here forming ! 
With what solemn and watchful solicitude should w r e search our 
hearts, and ascertain the ruling object of our life, whether it be for 
God or for this world. 

To the honor of God I wish to say it, I have lived in view of 
eternity. Forty years since, my existence began. Then my moth- 
er, now a saint in glory, consecrated me to God. With earnest 
prayer she besought the Lord that I might be converted early in 
life, and often have I heard her speak of the place, and the time, 
when she first obtained the witness of the Spirit that her prayers 
were answered. Often would she take me to the bed-chamber — 
the warm tears would fall on my cheek — she would tell me of that 



DAVID MARKS. 485 

promise of God, on which her faith took hold, and would plead 
with me to give my heart at once to my Savior. At the age of 
ten years, I was converted, and at fifteen I felt that I was called to 
preach the gospel of Christ. Necessity seemed laid upon me. I 
felt that I must go. Yet my parents were unwilling, for they 
thought me too young, and they did not hear that voice of God 
which I had seemed to hear, calling me to go forth at once and 
preach the gospel. My struggles at this time were very great. 
One day, I well remember, I was chopping alone in the woods : 
the whole subject came up before my mind with great freshness 
and power. I sat down and wept. I did not then know that my 
parents were watching me. My father called me to the house, 
and said : " Be seated, I want to talk with you a few minutes." I 
noticed my mother's eyes were red with weeping. " My son," said 
my father, " what have you been weeping about ?" I told him all 
my heart, I wanted to preach the gospel. I felt that God called 
me, and I longed to go. "My son," said he, "you may go : we 
have for some time felt that we were like Pharaoh of old who 
would not let the people go to serve their God ; we shall hold you 
back no longer ; you may go." My father gave me my time, my 
mother prepared my clothes, and the next morning I started off. I 
was then a few days over fifteen years old. From that time I have 
been engaged in preaching the glorious gospel. 

My early career as a preacher, was in some respects peculiar. 
The novelty of my boyhood often drew out immense congrega- 
tions, and of necessity, I frequently preached in the open air. 
These circumstances, doubtless, contributed to give me great strength 
of voice, and an unusual developement of the lungs, so that I sel- 
dom became weary in the effort of public speaking. The call 
for labor was so great that I often spoke six hours a day. In this 
way I was drawn into a course which entirely overtaxed my ner- 
vous system, and ere I was aware of my danger, I found myself 
broken down. 

But I cannot repent of my course. God has shown me a great 
deal of his glory, so that though my life has been short, I trust, 
through grace, it has been a blessing to my generation. Through 
grace, I have been enabled to work fast, and, I trust, accomplish 
something for God. Often for months and even years, I have done 
what good judges have said was labor enough for four men. So 
intensely has my system been excited, that I could not find time to 
sleep, and except when I have been completely exhausted, sleep 
has been a burden to me. The language of the hymn first sung 
by the choir, " Why sleep we, my brethren," has been very sweet 
to my soul. 

41* 



486 MEMOIRS OF 

One of my best evidences that God has trained me for the work 
to be done in that " spirit-land" whither I am going, is, that I have 
such an intense love for His work, as perhaps no human constitu- 
tion can long endure. My physical frame has sunk under it ; but 
I bless God, that my spiritual strength has been renewed day by 
day. Since the symptoms of death have been clear and decisive, 
no language can describe my intense longing for that " spirit-world," 
where I shall never tire in the work of God. My soul exults in 
God, and seems ready to leap up and soar away, as soon as it shall 
be released from this frail clay. 

This confidence in God seems to me the more wonderful, and 
seems the more to exalt the rich grace of God, because it is what, 
in view of my mental constitution, I had no reason to expect. 

My phrenological developements are such that it was always ex- 
tremely difficult for me to believe in a miracle. The organ of mar- 
vellousness is almost entirely wanting. Hence I have, naturally, a 
strong tendency to scepticism, and I have especially been often 
troubled with the apprehension that I should be tempted to scepti- 
cism in the near approach of death. This hour has now come, and 
I rejoice to testify to the glory of God, that his grace triumphs. 
My state of mind is entirely different from what I had feared. No 
doubts cast even their shadows across the broad sun-light of my 
soul — all nature seems to cry out, " Man shall live again* 9 The 
light of a blessed immortality dawns beyond the tomb. If the 
worthless insect re-appears in fresh beauty, and soars on new wings 
of glory, emerging from its grave, how much more shall man live 
again in unfading glory. 

O, it cannot be, even if there were no God, that nature should 
have implanted such a longing in the soul for immortality, if it is 
a boon forever to be withholden. The external evidences of Chris- 
tianity have brightened around me most surprisingly since disease 
has been gathering strength and pushing its assaults towards the 
citadel of life. As I saw my limbs begin to swell, and my strength 
to wane away, 0, there was a sweetness inexpressible in the con- 
fidence my soul felt in the Lord. 

This confidence is not the philosophic composure of a Hume. 
No ! infinitely unlike it ! I bless God that the " Christian's hope" 
is adapted not only to the philosopher, but to the peasant- — to the 
child — to the unlearned and the most despised of earth. None so 
low — none so far from philosophic science, but may feel Christ in 
the soul. Blessed be God, for this experience in my own case. 
Blessed be God, that I know the indwelling presence of Christ, 
my own glorious Savior." Now, although the outward evidences 
of Christianity have an obvious reality that satisfies my intelligence, 



DAVID MARKS. 487 

yet there is a sweetness in the personal knowledge of Christ in the 
soul, that is sweeter, better, clearer, and nobler. 

And now I long for my time to come. Christ is so near and so 
precious that I cannot fear death, and cannot apprehend any evil 
to me. O, my brethren, no reality is so sure, none so sweet, none 
so glorious, as the Christian's hope. I am waiting now for my 
Lord to come ; surely he cannot tarry long. I have not a linger- 
ing doubt but that I shall soon join that blessed company in the up- 
per world. I as much expect it as I ever expected to meet this 
congregation in this house of worship to-day. O, I shall soon see 
that great company — parents, I shall see your children — and chil- 
dren, I shall see your parents too, who have gone up ; and that 
great throng of martyrs who " came up out of great tribulation, 
washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the 
Lamb." 

Soon shall my eyes open on that land where the sun shall no 
more go down, nor their moon withdraw itself — where no storms 
shall rage, nor heat, nor sun shall smite us, — and, above all, where 
sin shall never enter nor afflict the sons and daughters of the Lord 
Almighty. O, my brethren of the gospel ministry, how sweet to 
be there, where the watchmen shall all see eye to eye, there too, 
where our spiritual children shall all be gathered to praise, with 
us, the rich grace of our Lord. There I shall meet many whom I 
have seen here below, and with whom I have taken sweet converse 
as we have moved along our pilgrim path-way together. O there 
is nothing like it. Every thing else dwindles into insignificance 
compared with that " exceeding weight of glory." 

And now, I beseech you, make it the great object of your life 
to be in sympathy with God. Then you will love to labor in his 
cause, and God will take delight in owning your labors and crown- 
ing them with his blessing. O how has sleep departed from my 
eyes, as I have looked over the great West, and thought of the migh- 
y conflict that is going on here, and is destined to go on till the 
kingdoms of this world shall become the kingdom of our Lord. 

What a scene lies outspread before us ! What an age of im- 
provement is that on which we have fallen ! The power of the 
press, and the wonders of steam, God has hidden from other ages 
since the world began, and reserved them for this — doubtless that 
they might just get under way, when he would take them into his 
service, and use them to waft the gospel round the globe. 

O ye young men and women, who are congregated here — give 
yourselves up to this work. O, consider what a work you have 
before you — to win souls to Christ — to save a soul for eternity — 
one soul for whom Christ died — surely to save one such soul were 



488 MEMOIRS OF 

honor enough to stimulate your utmost efforts. There is no post 
so honorable, as to be a minister of the glorious gospel, to be an 
embassador for God — to negotiate for souls. O what a work ! 
Let these thoughts sink down into your hearts. O live for God 
and your generation. You enter life in a glorious time to live- 
there is so much to do for God. 

To all the unconverted let me say — my heart is full ; I feel for 
you. Time's rapid tide is bearing you along, and a few days more, 
Or years, will bring you before the final bar. All the sermons 
you have heard from brother Finney, brother Mahan, and brother 
Morgan, and from other brethren of the " Faculty," are recorded 
in heaven-— all are registered there against you. You must meet 
them all there. O what an account you must render on that dread 
day ! What agony of soul you must endure, if you will reject tins 
salvation, bought with blood ! I beseech you, yield your hearts to 
God. 'Tis infinite folly and madness to delay— 'tis death to refuse ! 
O, all of you, who are unconverted, rest not, till you have given 
your hearts to God and found a Savior in Jesus Christ. 

Finally, Brethren, Farewell. Brother Finney, I want to give 
you my hand. All of you who love God, Farewell. 

Dear sinner, I wish I could say farewell to you— but I cannot. 
I cannot wish you well in rebellion against God. I cannot say it 
will be well with you, for I know it never can be, till you give your 
hearts to God. 

I want one more hymn sung, and then my friends may take me 
away. Sing the hymn, 

* Vital spark of heavenly flame,' &c.' 

With this hymn and a short prayer by Professor Finney, the 
meeting closed." 

The unexpected tidings of Mr. Marks' dangerous illness and death 
produced an unusually deep impression upon his large circle of 
friends, and drew forth from many of them letters of condolence 
to his widow, interspersed with expressions of the esteem with 
which they regarded him. Some of these letters contained pecun- 
iary assistance, which, from the consequent expenses of his pro- 
tracted sickness, was kindness indeed. Several tributes of re- 
spect to his memory appeared in the Morning Star. It was intend- 
ed to make copious extracts from these, and the letters referred 
to, but the limits of the work forbid. A few are given as speci- 
mens of others, and as illustrative of the impressions the tidings 
of his departure generally produced. The letters containing the 
first two extracts, were received three days previous to his death, 
and at his request were read to him. 



DAVID MARKS. 489 

[From the editor of the Morning Star.] 

Dover, Nov. 21, 1845. 
Dear brother and sister Marks : — Your letters of November lltli 
came duly to hand, and their contents deeply affected my heart. 
Previous letters from you had encouraged the hope that brother 
Marks would yet recover. But now, like a thunder-clap, the news 
falls upon my ear, that all hope has expired, that he is just on the 
verge of eternity, ready to launch away, and that arrangements have 
been made for funeral obsequies ! In a moment, all the happy in- 
terviews and pleasant associations of the past rushed upon my mind. 
Can it be possible, thought I, that I shall see brother Marks' face 
no more — no more hear his kind words, nor receive from him the 
friendly epistle ! It seemed indeed like a dream. I thought of 
the pleasant associations of gone-by days — of a brother and sister 
Beede, now in heaven, I trust — of a brother Burbank, too, with 
whom I was long associated in the Star office. He too, is gone. 
And it really seemed that I was about to be left alone. Well, if it 
must be so, ' The will of the Lord be done.' It will not be long 
before I shall follow ; and may God grant that we all may meet 
above. Sister Marks, you have my prayers, and the prayers of 
many friends here. The Lord, I have no doubt, affords and will 
continue to afford you his sustaining grace in your great affliction. 

I remain truly and affectionately yours, 

Wm. Burr." 

[From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Boston, N. Y.] 

" Nov. 21, 1845. 
Dear brother Marks : — * * * I cannot believe that 
you are positively nearing the cold valley, I can but hope it is only 
a temporary prostration, from which you will soon recover. For 
this, be assured, you have my earnest petitions. Please allow me 
to say, that there is no man living to whom I owe so much as your- 
self. Your kind admonitions were an excellent oil, which often 
soothed and encouraged my disconsolate and desponding spirits. 
Where I should have been by this time, without your timely aid, 
the Lord only knows. I never think of it, without a sensation of 
gratitude arising in my heart. I was happy to hear of your joy- 
ful state of mind. God's grace is sufficient, bless his name. 
***** Yours truly, 

P. W. Belknap." 

[From the Clerk of the Ashtabula quarterly meeting, Ohio.] 

" Conneaut, Nov. 29, 1845. 
Dear sister Marks : — I received your letter yesterday and haste 
to reply. I felt melancholy at the intelligence that brother Marks 



490 MEMOIRS OF 

is apparently on the borders of the grave, (and perhaps at this 
moment is praising God in heaven,) and still a thrill of joy sprang 
up in my soul, on the reflection, that if his work on earth is done, it 
is well done, and he can say with Paul, that he has * finished his 
course and kept the faith.' O how consoling : but sure it is, 
< God's ways are past finding out.' The providence of God in 
withholding the labors of brother Marks, and taking him to him- 
self, at so early a period, to us is mysterious, when so many live to 
a great age, that are mere ciphers and worse than naught in the 
moral world. But may God give us grace to guard against mur- 
muring at His dealings with us in this trying hour. I think, of late, 
I have reflected on the situation of that portion of the Zion of 
God with which we stand particularly connected, something as I 
should. We have nothing of which to boast, but we have had, and 
still have, as good native talent as any of our sister denominations ; 
and to see some of our strong men leave the field, I have been 
led to inquire, c By whom shall Jacob arise ?' One, on one hand, 
has fallen by his own improprieties, and now another, to whom we 
have looked as one of our ' Pioneers' and champions, is brought 
near the grave, (if not already interred,) one who has long stood 
high in the councils of our denomination, and who, by privations, 
perseverance, and personal sacrifice, was instrumental in aiding to 
secure, as the property of the connexion, the Morning Star, by the 
light of which thousands have been blessed. The influence he has 
exerted in its favor, the unwearied effort he has made to extend its 
heavenly rays, by extending its circulation, all these things, in addition 
to ' preaching the word,' have occupied my mind since I received 
your deeply affecting letter. But what can I say to you in this 
hour of affliction? To say that I fully sympathize with you 
would be an idle phrase, for as deeply as I feel the affliction for 
Zion's sake, I cannot feel what a companion feels in such a trying 
hour. ***** May God's grace support 
you is my prayer. Silas A. Davis." 

[From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Lowell, Mass.] 

Dec. 3, 1845. 
Dear brother Marks : — I received yours of the 10th ult. a few 
days since, and was very sorry to learn that you were so low and 
feeble. I still hope and pray, if it can be consistent with the will 
of our Heavenly Father, that you may yet be raised up to health. 
Can it be that I shall never again see your face in the flesh ? Shall 
I never again sit with you in General Conference to deliberate up- 
on the interests of Zion ? I hope I may : but if God should otherwise 
order, we must submit. We have spent many happy hours together 
in past years in different places in studying and laboring for the in- 



DAVID MARKS. 491 

terests of our beloved denomination. * * * * I 
am glad, dear brother, to learn that you enjoy the presence of the 
Lord, and feel resigned to his will. His grace will be sufficient for 
you. I trust we shall yet live eternally, where pleasures never die 
and sorrows never come. Yours very affectionately, 

Silas Curtis/' 

Subsequently he wrote : — 

"'Dear Sister Marks: — Never shall I forget the sensations 
which were produced in my mind when I opened your letter, 
and learned the solemn intelligence that brother Marks was 
no more on earth. Thought I, can it be that he is dead? 
Shall I see him no more in this world? Has he indeed done with 
toils, tears, cares, and labors, and gone to his glorious reward on 
high ? The recollection of many past scenes instantly rushed into 
my mind. The first time that I saw him was at the General Con- 
ference in Spafford, N. Y., more than sixteen years ago. Since 
that time, I have had an intimate and happy acquaintance with him, 
and our hearts were ever closely united in Christian ties, which 
death itself cannot dissolve. We have often journeyed, preached, 
and prayed together. We have wept and rejoiced together. We 
have spent many days and weeks, and a great part of many nights, 
in company with our associates of the Publishing Committee, in 
preparing for the press the ' Treatise on the Faith of the Free-will 
Baptists/ in devising means for the success of our Book Concern, 
and in laboring to promote the general interests of the cause of 
Christ. I was also reminded of my last parting with him at the 
General Conference in Plainfield, N. Y. in 1844. In his last 
speech in that Conference, he told us that he should never meet 
with us in General Conference again ; yet little did I then think 
that I should never more see him till we meet on immortal shores. 
It is indeed true that he is gone. His work is done — his sufferings 
are ended — he has joined the admiring host around the throne 
above. My first and last interviews with him were at General Con- 
ferences, both of which were in the state of New York. 

When I think of my dear brother Marks' peaceful, happy, vic- 
torious death, I can but wish that I could have been with him to wit- 
ness that glorious hour, when angels waited around his bed to bear his 
spirit to the skies ; but I look forward to future scenes. When a few 
more griefs are ended, when a few more storms have beat upon 
me, when I shall have blown the gospel trumpet a few times more, 
I hope to have the same grace to sustain me while passing through 
the gloomy vale, and then I shall meet the glorified spirit of broth- 
er Marks, with all my dear brethren in the ministry, and all the 
faithful who have gone before, on the plains of immortal glory, 



492 MEMOIRS OF 

where we shall gaze, and wonder, and admire— where our spirits 
will never faint' — and onr joys will never end. 

u O glorious day ! O blessed hope ! 
My heart leaps forward at the thought. 
When in that happy, happy land, 
We'll no more take the parting hand," 

With such hopes and prospects as these, my dear sister, let us 
submissively bow to that Divine Providence, which has removed 
from you, for a short time, an affectionate husband, from Zion's 
walls, a bold, fearless, and faithful watchman, and say, i Father, let 
thy will be done.' 

I am truly yours in Christ, Silas Curtis." 

[From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church at Great Falls, N» H.] 

" December 17, 1845. 

My dear sister Marks : — The sad intelligence of the departure 
of your dear husband has just been received, and although it is im- 
possible for me to give an expression of the sympathy and sorrow 
I feel, yet it seems a privilege to communicate something. * * 
* * You have our strongest sympathies and affections, and 
over the loss of the very many amiable and even holy qualifica- 
tions of your dear companion, I mourn, as I have never mourned 
over the loss of any other minister. I hope the remainder of his 
Life will be given to the public as soon as possible. I read his 
t Narrative' with deep interest soon after my conversion, and it 
then produced an anxious desire in my mind for more holiness of 
heart, and for higher attainments in the Christian life. After I be- 
lieved that God had called me to the ministry, I read it again, and 
the effect produced was still deeper. Indeed, much of my usefulness, 
(if any useful spots are to be seen in my almost useless life,) is 
to be attributed to that peculiar sympathy for sinners, and anxiety 
for their salvation, which was wrought in my heart, more, perhaps, 
by reading his i Narrative,' than any other one book except the 
Bible. As Mrs. Dunn wishes to write, I must close ; but my soul 
is full, and I feel like weeping constantly, while from my heart the 
anxious inquiry is arising, O God, on whom shall the mantle of 
this good man fall ? Dear sister, you are not alone in your afflic- 
tion. You are but one of more than sixty thousand mourners ! I 
know you feel it as others cannot ; but I trust you are prepared, 
as in this low time others are not. But we will trust in the Lord, 
1 whose mercy endureth forever.' I feel that the grateful thanks 
of the denomination are due to those whose efficient kindness was 
so freely manifested in your recent trials. The Lord reward them. 
In Christ, yours affectionately, Ransom Dunn." 

" My beloved sister in Christ : — I sit for a moment to express in 
a word something of the deep feelings of my heart, in consequence 



DAVID MARKS. 493 

of our bereavement, as a denomination, and the cause of the belov- 
ed Zion of God generally. I feel that we are bereaved. God has 
been dealing with us : he has dealt sternly, but it has been justly. 
Can it be that our beloved brother Marks is laid aside ? Are his 
labors at an end ? Are sinners no more to hear that voice that has 
so faithfully and affectionately warned them to seek the God of 
their salvation ? Yes, Ins labors are done, and he has gone to his 
reward. Many will rise in the great day of accounts to call him 
blessed. I cannot refrain my tears while I write. Being much 
beloved, he dies much lamented. I would not say a word to probe 
the wound so deeply made, or cause a bleeding heart to bleed 
afresh ; but were it in my power, would fain speak a word of conso- 
lation. In the absence of your departed husband, you have the pres- 
ence of Him who can heal all your sorrows. You, my dear sister, 
have now become heir to more promises, than you could have been 
in any other situation, and may they be your support. 

Affectionately, yours in sympathy, Mary E. Dunn." 

[From a student of Obeiiin College, now Principal of the Preparatory Department of 

that Institution.] 

"Newburgh, Ohio, Dec. 20, 1845. 

Dear sister Marks : — You have had a right to expect a letter 
from me before this, and it has been in my heart to write ; but I 
have felt, in view of the circumstances, such a poverty of language 
that it seemed almost a mockery to pen a word. * * * How 
soon has the prediction of brother Marks, in his last words to me, 
' You will see my face no more till we meet in heaven/ met its ful- 
filment ! Yes, that event that we all, except himself, fondly en- 
deavored to persuade ourselves was far in the future, has come up- 
on us as it were in a moment. Thus has God taught us as with a 
lightning flash, how strangely insecure are all our creature com- 
forts. I feel awed and rebuked before my Heavenly Father. 

I strongly desired that brother Marks should live. There seem- 
ed to me many reasons why it was important that his days should 
be prolonged. 1. Its influence on myself. I anticipated much 
benefit from his counsels, which his large experience so eminently 
qualified him to give. His uniform kindness, and the deep interest 
which he constantly manifested in my welfare, made it entirely safe 
for me to indulge high expectations of much that would be exceed- 
ingly valuable in preparing me for the ministry. 2. The fewness 
of ministers among us, whose hearts are so thoroughly imbued with 
the spirit of reform, and who have such clear views of the doctrine 
of perfect love, as beyond all question was true of him. 3. I knew 
if he lived, he would do much to strengthen that sweet union which 
has sprung up between the Free-will Baptists and the dear Oberlin 
42 



494 MEMOIRS OF 

brethren. I consider it matter of devout thanksgiving to God, that 
he came to Oberlin, and since his appointed hour had come, that he 
was permitted to die there. I would rather he should lay down 
his life there than any where else in the world. The hand of the 
Lord was in his coming to Oberlin. Let it be proclaimed to all 
our brethren, that one of their most faithful ministers went shout- 
ing home to his Lord from Oberlin — that Mr. Finney preached at 
his funeral, and that his remains repose in glorious hope in the 
Oberlin burying ground, and let the brethren of both denominations 
know, that as the Lord gave brother Marks to the Oberlin breth- 
ren to die with them, and with them to be buried, so should they 
give themselves to each other, to be one in the Lord, and that, al- 
though they may preserve their denominational distinction, yet in 
their hearts they should know no difference. 

You need not, sister, that I write words of consolation to you. 
You have in the example of your departed husband — in his perfect 
resignation to the will of God — in his triumphant confidence, an in- 
finitely clearer light to the Fountain of all consolation, than any 
thing that I can say." 

Subsequently he wrote as follows : " It is my decided opinion 
that a Memoir of brother Marks should be published as soon as 
may be. All classes need it. To young ministers, especially, will 
it be of immense value in forming in them that apostolic earnestness 
for which brother Marks was most remarkable, and which is all 
important in a servant of Jesus. * * * * I need not say 
that I have been deeply affected by reading the funeral sermon, 
the addresses, &c. Being separated from brother Marks during 
the last days of his stay upon earth, and my attention constantly 
engrossed with a large school, I had hardly aroused to the fact, that 
he was dead, until I obtained the funeral sermon in the Evangel- 
ist. Then it was the sad truth seemed a reality : then I began to 
feel that pressure of sorrow — that aching of heart which tells me I 
have lost more than a brother. I can say, in all sincerity, I great- 
ly loved brother Marks. During the whole time I was permitted 
to enjoy his acquaintance, he manifested the strongest sympathy 
with me in my efforts to obtain an education, entering as really into 
my trials and difficulties as though they were his own. And now 
that he is gone, the remembrance of those seasons that I have 
spent with him, although it unseals the fountains of my soul, is still 
among the sweetest of my recollections. How I rejoice that I con- 
sented, at his request, to leave my books and attend those meetings 
which we attended together the past autumn. I wish I could re- 
cord every word he said in our pleasant rides. Never can I forget 
the profitable time we had returning from quarterly meeting last 
September. He was much animated the whole evening. He 



DAVID MARKS. 495 

spoke of the danger of ministers from pride, from ambition, from 
love of praise, from jealousy of their ministering brethren. I re- 
member how tenderly and affectionately he spoke of his minister- 
ing brethren, especially of those from whom he had been compell- 
ed to differ. I am sure he possessed a Christ-like spirit toward all 
his brethren. 

Soon after this, while yet we were all encouraged by the favora- 
ble indications of returning health, conversing with him one day 
upon the moral wants of the ' West,' he said, with much emotion, 
' Ah, brother Whipple, if I can only regain my health, so as to be 
comfortable, I shall give up my studies, give up writing, take no 
more agencies, but spend all my remaining strength travelling 
through the 'West,' preaching Christ to perishing sinners.' It 
was not long, however, before he gave up all idea of preaching any 
more, being convinced that his work upon earth was almost done. 

October 28. I called upon brother Marks, and found sister 
Marks in tears by his bed-side. He welcomed me with his usual 
affectionate manner. He said, ' I have just been telling my wife 
that she must prepare for a separation, for I am well satisfied that 
my stay upon earth will be short. I feel that it would be mistaken 
kindness to withhold this conviction from her. How common for 
families to put far from them, as a topic of conversation, this sub- 
ject. What can be more unwise ! Often many things that ought 
to be done and said, are neglected until the last agony comes on, 
and then there is no time. My wife will soon be a widow, and I 
wish to say all to her that I can, that will be of any use to her 
when I am gone. I leave a kind and pleasant family. I bless 
God the review of our matrimonial life has in it no bitterness. I 
have nothing to bequeath to my dear companion except my dying 
counsel, but the Lord will provide. 9 October 31. Expecting to 
leave on the morrow, I called to take my leave of brother Marks. 
Said he, ' Farewell, brother Whipple, you will see me no more in 
the flesh. Before the winter shall have half passed away, I shall 
enter upon higher duties in heaven. I have,' continued he, with 
tears, 6 exceedingly loved the work of Christ. I have been a poor 
fallible instrument, but, in all my efforts, I have honestly sought 
the good of Zion. If the Lord will, I want to preach once more, 
and write a farewell address to the Free-will Baptist denomination, 
and then go home. Our acquaintance has been very pleasant, our 
next meeting will be unspeakably glorious.' 

Thus, my dear sister, I have given you, in much anguish of spir- 
it, and with many tears, a very imperfect sketch of two or three 
conversations I had with your departed husband. I can hardly be 
reconciled to the sad, sad truth, that I shall see his face no more in 
this life. I am aware this strain of remark will have little tenden- 



496 MEMOIRS OP 

cy to console you ; but it seems to me you have an element of con- 
solation of which I am deprived. Shut away as I was from his 
dying couch, I have not the preparation for the bereavement, which 
witnessing his most triumphant departure, would have given. Ah, 
it would have been a great privilege, could I have watched beside 
him the last few days in which he was crossing the river. But I 
will not murmur ; nay, I would be unfeignedly thankful to my 
Heavenly Fatter, that I have been permitted to enjoy his society 
so long, and I trust this most wise stroke will not be lost upon me. 
I feel called upon to dedicate myself anew to the Lord, and do 
what I can to fill up the breach made in the sacramental host by 
the removal of that valiant soldier. * * * 

Farewell. Yours in the bonds of our holy religion, 

Henry E. Whipple." 

At a recent date, he wrote : " Would that I could have seen the 
pale cold face of the sainted Torrey ! Would that I could have 
dipped the point of my sword in his blood, and over his murdered 
body, renewed my oath against slavery ! But his death will not 
be lost upon me. It will unite its influence with the death of your 
dear husband, to call me to nervous action in the cause of God. 
Their bodies have been laid in the grave ; but their spirits have 
gone up on high to receive their reward. I have no doubt but 
they will be intimate friends in heaven. ' They were lovely and 
pleasant in their lives, and in their death they were not' much c di- 
vided/ With peculiar emphasis, I can go on and say, ' I am dis- 
tressed for thee, my dear brother Marks : very pleasant hast thou 
been unto me : thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of 
women.' * * I cannot myself write about your dear departed 
husband, without pain of soul, such as no other affliction ever occa- 
sioned. My heart cries out with unutterable longings for my 
brother, whose face I may see no more. O, had I known last sum- 
mer, that he was so soon to be taken away, how I would have treas- 
ured up his words, and how careful I should have been to spend all 
the time possible in his society. O, those were precious ties of 
Christian love, that had just begun to bind strongly your dear fam- 
ily to me and mine. I had begun to promise myself much profit 
and happiness in the connection, when, alas ! the strongest link was 
snapped forever. I cannot but feel, and most keenly feel, that 
when the grave closed over the body of your dear husband, it con^ 
cealed from me, as far as this world is concerned, some of my 
most cherished anticipations ; but they shall be restored again. 
Faith points to a brighter shore. It will not be long, and we shall 
all go. Blessed prospect ! Those ties, although sundered for time, 
yet reach beyond the grave, and draw us more strongly towards 



DAVID MARKS. 497 

heaven. Where the treasure is there will the heart be also." * 
* * * * H. E. W. 

[From Mrs. Professor Finney.] 

" My dear afflicted Friend : — The lonely feeling, no doubt, of- 
ten comes over you with unutterable anguish, ' My bosom compan- 
ion is gone ! I am solitary and alone, as it were, in the midst of 
the world !' I feel, dear Mrs. Marks, that you need consolation, 
since the tie that so long bound you to your dear husband has been 
dissolved. The Lord, I trust, sustains and comforts you. How 
glorious the idea that Mr. Marks will never die. His poor body 
is laid aside, but his spirit is now released, disenthralled, no longer 
chained down to earth, unable to rise and seize the prize his ardent 
soul panted for. Although there are many things this side eterni- 
ty calculated to bear us onward and upward, still the uniform ten- 
dency is downward. We are by the very constitution and the ne- 
cessities of our nature compelled to descend, and become conver- 
sant with affairs little in accordance with those high hopes, which 
life and immortality have brought to light. Let us then rejoice 
that the heaven-born spirits of our friends are no longer bound 
down as ours are while in this frail tabernacle of flesh. I felt it to 
be a matter of thanksgiving that your Heavenly Father indulged 
you in the precious privilege of attending your sick and dying hus- 
band, to minister to his wants. Was it not an unspeakable consola- 
tion, when his strength was departing, and you felt that the dear 
Savior had sent a message for him, to see him not only, not disturb- 
ed or agitated, because ' flesh and spirit were about to fail,' but 
exceedingly joyful in hope of soon seeing Jesus ? 

Dear Mrs. Marks, keep your eye of faith steadily fixed above, 
and your hope anchored within the vail. That the presence of God 
may pervade your soul from day to day, is the prayer of your sym- 
pathizing friend, L. R. Finney." 

[From the Principal of Smithville Seminary, R. I.] 

"North Scituate, R. I. Dec. 24, 1845i 
Sister Marks : — It was with deep emotions that your last came 
to hand, announcing the exit of your husband. I could but look 
back to my first meeting with him, and the happy seasons we have 
since enjoyed at various times. Such recollections are sweet. But 
when I think that one of their participants is no more on earth, it 
strikes a gloom, and pierces my heart with a pang of sorrow. But 
we must submit. We must all die. We must soon follow the de- 
parted. Then how it behooves us to live in a state of preparation 
for the otherwise gloomy change. Though it is painful to take the 
finally parting hand with the dear people of God, yet it is blissful 
to reflect upon their triumphant departure, and their glorious state 
42* 



498 MEMOIES O^ 

among the beatific above. Doubtless these subjects of reflection 
soothe your sorrowing heart, and alleviate your distress of spirit. 
* * * Hoping to meet you in the world of bliss, together with 
your departed husband, I subscribe myself yours truly, 

Ho sea Quinby. 

[From an Episcopalian lady in Vermont,] 

"Arlington, Vt. Dec. 25, 1845. 

My Dear Niece : — * * * * The Oberlin Evangelist, 
containing intelligence of the death of your beloved husband came 
two days ago. I cannot realize that he has closed up his earthly 
labors, that he is no more to go out and come in among us, or speak 
to us of the blessed Savior. But it is — it must be so. Were not 
the promise sure that the Lord is a present help in time of trouble? 
and did you not realize this promise, your heart would be utterly 
desolate : but I trust that He is your refuge in this your severe af- 
fliction — that your heart is fixed — that you can say, Though he 
slay me, yet will I trust in him. My dear afflicted neice, how do I 
long to see you — to do all in my power to pour in the healing balm 
of consolation into your stricken bosom, but you have a Friend 
whose sympathy is all-powerful to relieve — who is afflicted in all 
your afflictions, and will save you out of them all. He healeth the 
broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. Whom the Lord 
loveth he chasteneth. I pray and trust that you faint not under 
His rebuke, but that you regard your present affliction as a token 
of His love, more precious than earthly friends or any earthly con- 
sideration, and that you cheerfully acquiesce in the will of God. 
Cast your burden, therefore, upon the Lord, who, though he afflict, 
will cause all things to work together for your good. Trust in 
Him. He will give you grace to sustain you in all the trials he 
sees fit to cause you to suffer. ' They that trust in the Lord shall 
be as mount Zion, that cannot be removed.' ***** 

There is much, too, in the circumstances attending your case. 
His i rough wind' has not blown upon you ; though it have been 
1 the day of his east wind,' it has been ' tempered' to you in much 
mercy. Your own loss is all you have to mourn. You had the in- 
estimable privilege of watching over your dear husband in his sick- 
ness, and administering to all his temporal wants, and also spiritu- 
al comfort, as far as earthly friends could minister ; and above all 
you had the unspeakable consolation of witnessing the glorious tri- 
umph of his faith over the last enemy, death, and you have not a 
reasonable doubt but his freed spirit has entered the mansions pre- 
pared for them that love God. What ingredient more could have 
been added to sweeten your cup of sorrow ? Next to the consola- 
tions derived from the gospel, are the testimonies of the kind re- 
membrances and sympathy of those who loved our departed friend -, 






DAVID MARKS. 499 

and you have many such testimonies, both written and unwritten. 
From the gospel, too, you have all the consolations which its divine 
promises afford to the believer. What an inexhaustible source of 
comfort ! It is a fountain ever full and ever open- — whence the 
soul, bowed down under the weight of its sorrows, may draw of the 
waters of life, and drink, and be satisfied — yea, its mourning be 
turned to joy and gladness. That this may be your experience, is 
the prayer of your affectionate aunt, M. Turner. 

[From the pastor of three Freewill Baptist Churches in Strafford, N. H.] 

"Dec. 31, 1845. 

Dear sister Marks : — The very able letter which your late and 
much esteemed husband recently wrote me, even when he was fee- 
ble and filled with distress, was duly received, and read with thrill- 
ing interest. * * * . Before I had done reading it, a 
solemn and sinking feeling took hold of my heart, different from 
anything I ever experienced before, when reading one of his com- 
munications, and I remarked : — i Brother Marks has about done 
his work ; he is going from his labors to rewards.' 

On the 22d inst., a brother came from Dover, and said that on 
the Sabbath previous, Elder Perkins, who preaches to the first Free- 
will Baptist church, named to the congregation that brother Marks 
was dead ! ! O what reflections ! what a thrilling shock it gave 
me ! and I replied in David's words ; J Know ye not that a great 
man has fallen in Israel ?' Yesterday, as myself and wife were 
alone in our house, seeing the mail pass, she went to the Post Office 
and got our papers. In came the Morning Star, all in deep mourn- 
ing. She commenced reading to me and weeping. I then took the 
paper, and read and wept, and wept and read, and even rejoiced, 
withal, that he who had been so strong in faith, and abundant in 
labors, had been so happy and victorious in death ; and although 
he fell a martyr (as did Randall and Colby) to his zeal for the 
Lord of Hosts, he has gone to receive that reward which all have 
received who have truly laid down their lives for Christ. I thought 
of our first acquaintance — our hearts had ever been united like the 
hearts of David and Jonathan. Again, I thought of the time when he 
and brother Beede, with myself, composed the committee to draft the 
plan of our Book Establishment. They are gone. I shall soon 
follow. I thought of his address to the members of the last Gen- 
eral Conference, at Plainfield, at its close, when coming down out 
of the desk, with tears flowing over his manly cheeks. But I will 
say no more about my own reflections. 

My dear sister, you have abundant reason to thank God that you 
have heen permitted to live with His faithful servant some sixteen 
years, and that you now have such an interest in heaven, and at- 



500 MEMOIRS OF 

tachment to that heavenly world as you never had before. I 
do sympathize with you and your adopted daughter, as well as with 
the whole denomination, who, as a general thing, will be like their 
religious paper, all in mourning. * * * * You 
will, no doubt, in due time, prepare a second volume of brother 
Marks' Narrative, and should the book not be too expensive, but 
so low that about all may obtain it, it will have an extensive circula- 
tion, and my dear brother by it, though dead, will yet speak, to the 
conversion of sinners, to the comforting of saints, and the awaken- 
ing and stirring up of the ministry. We must all be more faithful, more 
devoted. I intend to be, for one, by God's help, and so aid in making 
up Zion's loss. My opinion is, that, eventually, God will overrule 
our dear brother's death to the interests of his church. Let us re- 
member the words he spake unto us while he was yet with us. 

The kindness of Professor Finney and others at Oberlin to 
brother Marks will be gratefully remembered by every true Free- 
will Baptist. 

Very affectionately your brother in tribulation, 

E. Place." 

[From the New Year's Address in the Morning Star, written by Elder A. K. Moulton of 
Portland, Me., one of the associate editors.] 

" Some of the early patrons of the Star have gone forever : and 
one j whose name is dear to all — one, who helped to warm it into 
life, and whose ' light' has been from week to week emitted through 
the Star, and who has labored almost incessantly to sustain it, 
whose sentiments have assisted in no small degree to give a tone to 
our beloved denomination, whose voice has gladdened her assem- 
blies, and whose counsels have added to her prosperity, has gone to 
his reward." 

[From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Roxbury, Mass., formerly a Tutor in 
Oberlin College.] 

Roxbury, Jan. 5, 1846. 
Dear sister Marks : — We received your letter a week or two 
since, containing the sad news of brother Marks' death. What shall 
I say ? How shall I express the feelings which have not yet be- 
gun to die away in my heart ? Our dear brother Marks is gone ! 
But O what a death ! How gloriously triumphant ! As I read 
the account of his last sickness, I could only read and weep, and 
weep and read. Never did the fountain of my soul seem to be so 
broken up. I cannot call it to mind without renewing the flow 
of tears — mingled tears of joy and grief; nor without recollecting 
many things in my acquaintance with brother Marks. Especially 
does it bring to mind the first time that I heard him preach, and 
the second. [I heard him only three times.] I had read his 



DAVID MARKS. 501 

6 Narrative,' and regarded many of the statements contained in it, 
respecting the effect which almost always attended his preaching, 
as utterly unaccountable ; but when I heard him the first time, 
which was but eighteen months since, [at Lagrange, Ohio. Ed.] 
my incredulity entirely vanished. It was a communion season, 
and his subject was the Lord's Supper. It seemed to me that my 
soul was but a vessel of tears. I stifled my sobs, until I could not 
refrain from weeping aloud. It was so with many. He possessed 
a peculiar power to reach the fountain of sympathy within the 
heart. Thus it was to nearly an equal degree the second time I 
heard him preach, three months afterward. Is it possible that he 
is gone ? O ! can it be ? Dear sister, I would not harrow up 
your feelings, but you will allow me to weep with you. It seems 
as if it could not be that I should no more see brother Marks 
nor hear from his lips, the melting truths of Calvary. Had I sup- 
posed that he would, ere this, have gone down to the grave, I should 
not so soon have hurried away, when I was at your house in August 
last. Yes, it is indeed true. I shall no more see my beloved broth- 
er during all the pilgrimage of earth. But surely there is another 
magnet to draw us heavenward ; and yet how shall w r e do without 
him ? We shall deeply feel his loss for many years. But espec- 
ially shall I. To few persons during my life, have I felt so strong 
a personal attachment as to brother Marks. His was one of the 
warmest hearts that ever beat in the bosom of man, and one of the 
most generous. His was no suspicious, half-confiding friendship, 
but whole-souled, unsuspecting. If I mourned only my individual 
loss it would be irreparable. But again, I revert to the glorious 
death-bed triumph. Would that the infidel world could have been 
there, ' to see how a Christian can die.' Die ! It is not death ! It 
is but the budding forth of eternal life. Nor is such a triumph a 
miracle. It is only an exhibition, (such as might be common,) of 
the power of that full salvation which the gospel proffers, and 
which was the theme of brother Marks' delightful contemplation. 
My last conversation with him was upon this point. Even then 
the smiles of heaven, beaming from his face, spoke of a peace that 
passeth all understanding, and of joys that are unspeakable and 
full of glory! Never can I forget the expression of his coun- 
tenance on that day. I would have been glad to have stood by 
him in the hour of his victory. Yours, dear sister, has been a pe- 
culiar privilege. You were near him to hear his words of glorious 
triumph. 

A w r eek ago yesterday, I preached a sermon to my congregation 
on the occasion of brother Marks' death, from Psalms 41:1 — 3 ; 
and read most of your diary in connection with my discourse. The 
impression made, seemed to be deep and solemn. Sobbing was 



502 MEMOIRS OF 

heard through all the house. I do not know but it will be true 
that brother Marks will be found in the day of judgment to have 
slain more in his death than he did during his life. I feel to con- 
secrate myself anew to the ministry ; and well may the minister of 
the cross, in view of such a scene, exclaim, i I am not ashamed of 
the gospel of Christ, for it is the wisdom and the power of God 
unto salvation, to every one that believeth.' r * * * 
* * You have the prayers and sympathies of hundreds 
here, both those who have personally known you and those who 
have not. 

From your sympathizing brother in Christ, 

Edmund B. Fairfield. 

[From the Morning Star, written by the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Bos- 
ton, Mass, formerly a missionary to India.] 

" Elder Marks. Week before last I took the Oberlin Evan- 
gelist out of the office, and the first thing that caught my eye was 
the funeral sermon of this devoted and eminently useful brother 
I shut myself up alone, and read and wept almost all day. O wha 
a triumphant death ! Brother Marks died not only a Christian, bu 
a man, a full grown man. If ever there was any thing like 
clearness and strength of intellect, we find it in him to the very 
last. Who ever heard of an infidel, a heathen, or a man of the 
world, dying as brother Marks did ? 

On the following Sabbath I preached from the words, < Precious 
in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints f and, at the 
close of my discourse, read sister Marks' journal of her husband's 
last days. It was a solemn and affecting time. A few days af- 
ter, when brother Marks' farewell address to the denomination, 
and his discourse to the students of Oberlin, came out in the Star, 
I expected, of course, to find but a few disconnected sentences from 
a dying man ; but when I found him reasoning as clearly and for- 
cibly as ever I knew him to do when in health, I could but glorify 
God, who had given such gifts to men. In brother Marks, our 
denomination has lost one of its pillars — A great man has fallen in 
our Israel; but we are honored by having such a hero of the cross 
in heaven. I hope an able hand will assist sister Marks in collect- 
ing the materials and preparing a complete memoir of his life. 
Certainly no book will be in greater demand throughout our de- 
nomination. * * * * Eli No yes. 

Boston, Jan. 12, 1846." 

Subsequently he wrote : — 

" Dear sister— I scarcely know what to say. Your loss is great, 
but how can you grieve ? A mind so fitted for glory ought not to 



DAVID MARKS. 503 

have been longer confined in a human body. what would any 
of us give, to be where brother Marks is to day ! I well remem- 
ber the first evening I ever spent with yourself and husband. It 
was at the house of Deacon Hutchinson in Fayette, Me. He 
spoke to me about going to India. Ever since that time, you have 
both been near and dear to my heart. I hope, dear sister, you 
will have grace to enable you to bear all trials imposed upon you 
by a kind Parent, and that you will have friends in every time of 
need. * * Thine in the Lord, 

Eli Noyes." 

[From the Morning Star, written by an aged minister.] 

* " In the above mentioned meeting, [a two 

days meeting in Savannah, Crusoe Island, N. Y.,] I preached a funer- 
al sermon on the death of our late departed brother, Elder David 
Marks. I first read his last address to the connexion, then preach- 
ed a short discourse from Hebrews 11:13. ' These all died in 
faith,' &c. I think it was a profitable time. It was but a few 
miles from this place, that he experienced the reality of that Scrip- 
ture, ' They that seek me early shall find me.' Yes, and on the 
marsh that lies along this island, is the place where he went to 
work on the canal to get money with which to buy his first gram- 
mar. Here I imagined I saw the drunken Catholics, giving him 
their sympathies, and contributing to relieve him from further toil ; 
yes, and near this runs on the pleasant stream, where he followed 
his Divine Lord in the ordinance of baptism ; and near here he 
received his first license to preach. While these things were pass- 
ing in review, they had a powerful effect on myself and on the 
crowded audience, who had gathered through a tedious storm. 
Glory to God, for his triumphant death. I think his doings and 
sayings in his dying day will do more than all he has done in his 
life, for this was the crowning day of all his labor : Glory to God. 
I never knew how much I loved him till now. How often we have 
wept, and prayed, and eaten together, in the name of the Lord — 
and now his body lies cold and dead at Oberlin ! But I shall soon 
shake hands with him or see him in a fairer world on high, for I 
feel that I am doing my last work. Farewell. 

Samuel Wire." 

[From the pastor of the Free-wil] Baptist church in Manchester, N. H.] 

Manchester, Jan. 16, 1846. 
Dear sister Marks : — Your sad letter came to us Dec. 19th, in- 
forming us of the death of your dear husband, our beloved broth- 
er Marks. O ! it was very sad and painful news to us. Can it be 
possible that we shall see him no more on earth ! Both myself and 
wife weep and deeply sympathize with you in your great loss. 



504 MEMOIRS OF 

Brother Marks' character was no ordinary one. With a mind deep* 
ly engrossed with great plans for the promotion of the cause of 
Christ, he united the kindest sympathies and most tender affection 
for his friends. 

You know we both loved and highly esteemed your dear hus- 
band ; and from my long and intimate acquaintance with him, be- 
ing associated with him on the Publishing Committee, and witness- 
ing his deep devotion to the interests of our denomination, as well 
as the cause generally, I became greatly attached to him, and I know 
of no minister among our beloved brethren, whom I regarded with 
greater affection. I wish I could have seen him in his last sickness. 
Had I known he was to be taken from us so soon, I think I should have 
visited Oberlin, that I might have been with him in his last moments 
and witnessed his triumphant death. My heart is full, I can write no 
more. May the Lord direct and sustain you in your severe trial 
and affliction. 

Respectfully, your brother in Christ, 

Daniel P. Cilley. 

[From a Congregationalist lady, formerly of Oberlin.] 

Lawrence, Van Buren Co. Mich., Jan. 18, 1846. 
My dear sister Marks : — Brother J , a graduate of Oberlin In- 
stitute, informed me that he had heard through the Evangelist of your 
dear husband's death. This was indeed painful intelligence to us. My 
husband was deeply affected as well as myself. Brother Marks 
was very dear to us. We have loved to review the pleasant sea- 
sons spent with him, and dwell upon the wholesome admonition and 
sweet counsel we have often received from his lips. But, although 
we were deeply grieved to hear that our dear sister was left with- 
out a companion in this vale of tears, still we could but rejoice that 
our brother was at rest. He has lived a life of toil, of pain, and 
suffering. He has been a means, in his Master's hand, of winning 
many souls to Christ, and who shall say that in taking him hence, 
and laying him low in the tomb, God hath not done all things well. 
***** Husband has just returned from the sanctuary, 
says there was no preaching, and as one of our neighbors had re- 
ceived the Morning Star containing the account of your dear com- 
panion's death, they proposed that husband should read brother 
Finney's sermon and brother Marks' farewell address. He said 
he tried to do so, but was so much affected that he could only read 
brother Finney's sermon, and a part of the extracts. There are 
several here who have heard brother Marks preach, and it was, no 
doubt, more interesting to them than any thing else would have 
been. 



DAVID MAH&S. 505 

It must have been a very interesting sight to see your husband 
triumphing so gloriously in the arms of death. Surely, my dear 
sister, you have abundant reason to rejoice that in his sickness and 
death, God was so greatly glorified. I have, in imagination, pic- 
tured to myself the trying hour when he departed, and it has seem- 
ed to me, that it must have been a scene well worthy the atten- 
tion of angels, and one upon which Christians could gaze with 
great delight. Truly, in life and death he glorified his Heavenly 
Father, and we should not wish him here to suffer again. Still I 
know you must feel his loss very deeply. You have so long had 
such anxious care for him, and formed all your plans of life in ref- 
erence to him, that I am sure you must miss him every where. 
* * * But thus it is, our dear Heav- 
enly Father cuts asunder one tie after another that unites our af- 
fections to earth, until at lest we feel that verily this is not our 
abiding house, and here is no rest. ***** 
Your truly affectionate sister, 

O. Thompson. 

[From the pastor of the Free-will Baptist church in Ridgeway, N. Y.] 

January 20, 1846. 
Afflicted sister : — Your letter addressed to me, dictated by your 
husband, our dear brother, in his last illness, did not come to hand 
until we received the sad news of his death. * * * * 
The untiring efforts of our much esteemed and lamented brother 
Marks in the cause of God, and his devotion to the interests of our 
denomination, are too well known, and too generally acknowledged, 
to need comment by myself. I read with deep interest, the ac- 
count of his last illness and his triumphant death, and while I could 
but weep for departed worth, I felt stimulated to new vigor in the 
cause of God. I read his address delivered to the students and 
people at Oberlin to my congregation. It is needless to say it was 
listened to with deep interest. * * * * May 

you be sustained in your deep affliction. 

With due respect, your brother, 

H. Gilman. 

{From the wife of Elder P. W, Belknap.] 

Boston, N. Y. Feb. 10, 1846. 
My dear afflicted sister Marks: — ' It is all over I ■ It is past !' O 
how these words thrilled and vibrated through my whole soul, as 
my dear husband tremblingly opened and hastily read from your 
affecting letter. I anticipated the sequel. I knew the arrow had 
flown, and the spirit of your much loved husband was gone ! gone ! 
gone ! I had feared this might be the next intelligence we should 
have, yet I was unprepared to receive it. I had anxiously hoped 
43 



506 MEMOIRS OF 

that the severing blow might a little longer be withheld, and 
your dear companion spared to comfort you, and bless our beloved 
Zion. But, my dear sister, it is God who has done it, and in the 
glorious and triumphant death of your ' now angel husband,' how 
much of his salvation has been exhibited. O, I praise God, that 
you have been enabled to realize it, and notwithstanding the inde- 
scribable loneliness which ever and anon sweeps over your smitten 
heart, I trust you still prove God's grace sufficient for you. Not a 
hair of your head can fall without his notice. O how safe to trust 
in such an Almighty arm ! Precious resting place ! Mr. Belknap 
received your mournful letter the Saturday after it was written. He 
appeared very solemn, but did not inform me of it till after sup- 
per, when he opened and read. We had company. Our feelings 
you can faintly imagine. Sighs and tears flowed profusely. And 
then that memorable Star that came to us in robes of widowhood ! 
O what feelings it awakened ! Mr. Belknap said he had been 
looking for it, and thought he was prepared to receive it — yet 
when it came to hand, his feelings were indescribable and almost 
uncontrollable. He endeavored to make use of it for the good of his 
weeping flock, some of whom were brought into the fold through 
the faithful labors of your companion. O the awful grandeur of 
that solemn moment, in which, from your own arms, your earthly 
all was yielded back into the arms of the Giver. Doubtless 
God and angels admired, as the still dark wave bore him away to 
the other side of Jordan. Often in my fancy have I traced your 
quiet step from one apartment to another of your peaceful yet 
lonely abode, and heard the suppressed sigh, as you saw — here, his 
long loved library filled with marks from his own pencil as emphat- 
ic sentences caught his penetrating eye — there, a garment left on- 
ly to tell, ' He is gone !' — yonder, his table spread with valuable 
papers, filed and bound with his own hand, together with his sta- 
tionery, invaluable letters to yourself, &c.-, all mournfully respond- 
ing, 'He is not here !' O I seem even now to hear his melting 
strains, as he prayed for us when we last visited you. Shall I 
never again hear his mild voice ? But forgive, sister, I did not 
mean to make your full heart bleed afresh. Hark ! I hear a voice 
from the Lord, saying : ' Write, blessed are the dead which die in 
the Lord from henceforth ; Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may 
rest from their labors, and their works do follow them.' Your ' an- 
gel husband' rests ! — but his works follow him. Mr. Belknap, a 
few days since, followed one of his brothers to the grave, who was 
converted through your husband's labors, when a lone youth he 
was travelling in western New York, warning sinners to flee the 
wrath to come. Methinks as his spirit entered glory, another star 
is added to your sainted husband's crown, while seraphs sing, 



DAVID MARKS. 507 

4 Their works do follow them.' And does his work now cease ? 
No. It goes on, and will continue to go on, widening and deep- 
ening, shedding a hallowed influence upon each successive genera- 
tion to the latest period of time, while he continues to shine as a 
magnificent star forever and ever. And do you not, my dear sis- 
ter, feel that even now he may be doing, as he desired, the work 
of a guardian angel, ministering unto you in lone widowhood? 
To deprive me of the belief that I enjoy this boon of love, would 
be to deprive me of one of the most soothing cordials (aside from 
the smiles of my Heavenly Father) that has ever been adminis- 
tered to me, since the angel of death commenced his desolations 
among my choice ones. Often, when afflicted, have I seemed to 
hear their sweet voices, saying, ' Sister, daughter, do not weep ! 
life's night will soon be past, and then we'll welcome your spirit to 
the home of the blessed.' 

I have read your letter again and again to those who have call- 
ed. The stranger has wept, while the conviction of the reality of 
the Christian's hope, and its supporting power under such a be- 
reavement, has evidently fastened upon his mind. * * * 
Your friends, from New England to the far west, are very numer- 
ous, and they will not, cannot forget you. No, no, so long as one 
of our denomination remains, the labors of your departed husband 
will be held in sacred remembrance, ***** 
Your welfare, dear sister, interests our deepest sympathies. Per- 
mit me again to say, don't yield to despondency. Farewell. 
Your ever affectionate and sympathizing sister, 

C. A. Belknap. 

[From Miss Emily A. F. Winsor, R. I.] 

Greenville, Feb. 18, 1846. 
My dear sister : — The press announces your severe bereave- 
ment, and though I know you have all the consolation that one 
could have who had lost a friend, still your loss is great. But great 
as is this loss to you and all Elder Marks' immediate family, it is 
greater to a dying world ; and for this reason I particularly mourn 
his departure. On the morning of the 7th inst., my dear mother 
communicated the news of your husband's death — much overcome. 
It was to her almost insupportable. He had not, I presume, a 
warmer friend, than my mother. She asked, < Was he not the 
most remarkable man you ever knew ?' I can truly answer, ' Yes/ 
and repeat in my grand-father's words, [Judge Foster. Ed.] ' Elder 
Marks' Journal was the most remarkable Journal I ever read.' My 
brother William, though a little boy, read it aloud to the family 
evening after evening, until he had read the whole. 

* Were I acquainted with Professor Finney, I 



508 MEMOIRS OF 

would send to him my heartfelt thanks for his attentions to Elder 
Marks, one of my dearest Christian friends. I love to dwell upon 
his memory. I have not a relative deceased, who was so endeared 
to me, and to whom I owed so much. Emily. 

[From Elder Joseph B. Davis.] 

Jamaica Plains, April 20, 1846. 

Dear sister in Christ : — The storm has passed — the trial is over 
— the active, energetic spirit of your husband, our beloved brother, 
and God's faithful servant, has finished its earthly course, accom- 
plished its work and entered into rest. We are sorry for you, we 
mourn for our denomination, and the world, that death's dark cloud 
should blot out his full-orbed sun of usefulness in its glorious noon- 
day, from our dark world. But we are glad that death could neith- 
er darken nor obscure those brilliant and glorious rays, which shone 
forth with such heavenly splendor, in his last clear and peaceful 
moments — rays, which even now gild our moral heavens, and which 
must continue to shine while the church exists or the world stands. 
He is dead, yet speaketh — gone, yet here — although in heaven, he 
lives and works among us. He indeed was a peculiar man, sent 
to a peculiar people, in a peculiar time, to accomplish a peculiar 
work. He has done it in haste, and gone, and left us gazing after 
him. 

Your husband possessed a strong, deep, clear, original, well cul- 
tivated mind, and most severely disciplined ; cultivated and disci- 
plined alone for the cause of Christ, in which he was always over- 
active. His style, arrangement, and manner of delivery, were pe- 
culiarly his own. His easy unaffected manners, always accompan- 
ied with great simplicity, and his warm gushing heart, overflowing 
with kind feelings, could never fail to secure the love of those 
blessed with his society. His time, talents, and all his energies, 
were laid upon the altar of his God, and he was most emphatically 
wedded to the people among whom God sent him to labor. With 
them he identified himself and his earthly all. * * * * 

Your brother in Christ, J* B. Davis. 

[From the President of Oberlin Collegiate Institute, to a friend in Hartford, Ct.] 

* * * * "I will give you a few facts pertaining to the 
character of Elder Marks, in the estimation, not only of his own, 
but of other denominations of Christians. 1. His natural talents 
were altogether above the ordinary stamp. This is evinced by the 
fact that, though he commenced his ministry when very young, 
and with little education, he at once acquired a commanding in- 
fluence as a preacher and as a man, which influence continued to 
increase till the close of his ministry. 2. In labors in the cause of 
Christ, he was more abundant than any man I ever knew* 3. In 
the midst of the most arduous and unremitted labors, he was a pre* 



DAVID MARKS. 509 

eminently studious man. Even when walking or riding, he had 
some useful book or publication in hand, which he was continuously 
reading, and few I believe could give a better account of what they 
had been reading than he. No hour with him, during his waking 
moments, was idly spent 4. In respect to his Christian character, 
its prominent features were pure integrity, benevolence, self-forget- 
ful devotion to doing good, and an enlarged and tender philanthro- 
py. I should mention other characteristics did my space permit. 
Sure I am, that the above is not an overdrawn picture. Such 
would be the verdict of all the friends of our common Lord of every 
name who knew Elder Marks. His works will follow him, and 
his Memoirs, I doubt not, descend as a sweet* savor to distant gen- 
erations. 

Yours with much esteem, A. Mahan. 

The following Resolutions have passed by different Associations 

of Churches* 
[Exeter quarterly meeting, in the state of Maine, at its January session, 1846.] 

" Resolved, That the labors, life, and devotion of the late Elder 
David Marks, to promote the interests of our beloved Zion, and 
the cause of God generally, and his triumphant death, should 
stimulate us, as a people, to devote our lives, with all we have and 
are, to the cause of God, and should strengthen our confidence in 
the religion of Jesus Christ, as being an antidote for all the ills of 
this inconstant life, affording support to the afflicted, sustaining the 
dying, and preparing the soul for immortal glory beyond this vale 
of tears." 

[London quarterly meeting, Upper Canada, at its January session, 1846.] 

a Resolved, That this Conference deeply sympathize with the 
bereaved widow and the Free-will Baptist connexion in the loss 
they have sustained by the death of our brother, Elder Marks." 

[Geauga quarterly meeting, Ohio, at its February session, 1846.] 

u Resolved, That we deeply feel the loss we have sustained in 
our denomination by the death of our dear brother, Elder David 
Marks, and feel in our hearts to sympathize ~with our dear sister in 
the loss of her husband. And we feel called upon, by this provi- 
dence, to consecrate ourselves anew to the cause of God, and seek 
that holiness of heart that rendered him an efficient laborer, and 
carried him triumphantly over the Jordan of death." 

[New Hampshire yearly meeting, at its June session, 1846.] 

" Whereas, since we last met in yearly meeting, we have been 
called to record the death of our late beloved brother, Elder David 
Marks, who has labored much for our denomination, and more in 
this yearly meeting than any other excepting the Holland Purchase, 
Therefore, 
43* 



510 MEMOIRS OF 

Resolved, That in his death the connexion has sustained a great 
and painful loss. 

Resolved, That we are thankful for the efforts now being made 
for publishing the Memoirs of brother Marks, that we may be fa- 
vored with his wisdom and experience ; and are happy to see 
the subscription for that work so large and still increasing." 



From the Morning Star. 
To the Memory of Elcler David Marks* 

Alas ! alas ! and can it be, that thou art with the dead ! 
That thou, from all who loved thee here, hast like a vision fled f 
Ah ! little deemed we that so soon, the shadows of the tomb 
Should shroud thy glorious noon-day sun in everlasting gloom — 
That thou in life's high prime shouldst fall, as a tempest-riven tree ? 
Ah ! little deemed we that so soon the grave would shelter thee \ 

Ere, in thy sky the golden tints of morning all were dead, 

Or from thy path, its balmy dew or fragrant breath had fled, 

Thou, with a willing heart didst turn, from earthly snares away, 

And on the altar of thy God, thyself an offering lay ; 

And like the Hebrew prophet, thou didst early learn to know 

Jehovah's voice, though it were heard in whispers soft and low. 

'Tis but as yesterday, we saw thy kindled brow and eye, 
As thou, with steady hand, did'st bear the gospel banner high ; 
And on the stormy battle-field, when Zion's foes were near, 
Wert cheering on the scattered hosts, — thy cheek unblanched with 

fear ; 
For thou, with heaven- wrought panoply, did'st arm thee for the strife. 
Prepared for Jesus' sake to spend thy honor, and thy life. 

How often has thy warning voice been here among us heard ; 
And by thy thrilling eloquence, oar spirits deeply stirred ! — 
Ay, round our hearths and o'er our hills thy heavenly words have 

rung, 
And many a listening multitude have on thy accents hung ; 
And in our hearts, like holy fire, thy fervent thoughts have burned, 
— They were not of the earth, and hence they have to heaven returned,. 

God called thee mid thy faithful toil to lay thine armor by, 

And ceasing from thy earthly work, to join the hosts on high ; 

And mid thy dying strife, a strain of holy triumph rose, 

As when to seek his happy home, a care-worn exile goes ; 

For light, from that celestial world, was o'er thy spirit shed, 

And angels round thy humble couch their glittering pinions spread. 

No more, no more, the fainting frame the restless spirit chains, 
Nor night, nor sleep, from its high work, thy angel wing detains — 
Thou art amid the hosts who bow around Jehovah's throne, 
Rejoicing to obey His will, and make His glories known ; 



DAVID MARKS. 511 

And loud thy rapturous songs arise amid the holy choir, 

For even here, like his of old, thy lips were touched with fire. 

Farewell ! we know that thou art hlest, and yet our tears will flow. 
For Zion's sake we hoped that thou wouldst longer dwell below ! 
Love casts its offerings on the sod, which now doth cover thee ; 
But faith, with joyous eye, looks up thy angel form to see ; 
And hope illumes with holy light thy mansion in the dust, 
And waits, till from its cold embrace, immortal life shall burst. 

V. G. R, 



From the Oberlin Evangelist. 

On the Death of Elder Marks. 

Haste ! angels have called thee, away to thy home ! 
We may not detain thee, the Spirit says " Come, 
Come home, wearied spirit, thy works are all done, 
Thy task is accomplished, thy victory won." 

'Tis surely the music of heaven's own choir 
That has lit up thy soul with undying fire ; 
The harps of the seraphs have struck on thine ear, 
And waked a response in thy bosom e'en here. 

'Twas the love of thy Savior that sent thee to weep 

O'er the woes of a world long buried in sleep ; 

It sent thee to labor, forbade thee to rest, 

Chased sleep from thine eyes, and repose from thy breast. 

It sent thee to weep o'er the young and the gay, 
And to win back the lovely from death's beaten way ; 
It taught thee to watch and to mourn over sin, 
Till the sad heart grew faint, and the wearied eye dim. 

And thy spirit with joy took its heavenward way, 
But a sweet smile it left on its mansion of clay, 
And the wings of bright angels that still lingered there, 
Gently brushed from thy brow every vestige of care. 

Farewell, then, 'tis meet that the toil-worn should rest, 
Who have labored and prayed that a world might be blest ; 
In thy crown of rejoicing gleams many a gem, 
And the jewels that shine there shall time never dim. 

Full many a spirit hath welcomed thee there 
Thou hast labored and toiled for, and wept over, here ; 
How joyful that meeting — Ah, well may the song 
Burst warm from the bosom of that holy throng. 

And well may we smile o'er thy perishing clay, 
And rejoice that thy spirit so soon passed away : 
Thou hast gone 'mong the holy, the perfect, to dwell, 
Thou hast gone — and we bid thee a jovful farewell. 

M. R. McB, 
Oberlin, December, 1845. 






512 MEMOIRS OF 



CONCLUDING REMARKS. 

Although the distinctive features in the character of Mr, Marks 
standout with prominence upon the surface of the preceding history, 
still there are a few incidents not introduced into the body of thejwork, 
which perhaps present those distinctive features in a still bolder light. 

One distinguishing characteristic, as has been already seen, was his 
untiring industry. Perhaps no man ever lived who set a greater 
value upon his time. Seldom, if ever, could he take up the lamen- 
tation, u I have lost a day !" if indeed he could say, " I have lost 
an hour !" The following incidents will illustrate this point, and 
also exemplify his particularity in the most trivial things which 
infringed upon his moments. On one occasion, a few months be- 
fore his death, an inmate of his house blew out his candle without 
saturating the wick with the tallow, as was his custom in order to 
make it ignite more readily. The next morning, he said to the in- 
dividual, very solemnly, " Do you know that you have robbed me 
of one minute of my precious time ?" " How," was the response. 
" It took me one minute longer than usual to light my candle, in 
consequence of the manner in which you extinguished it last night." 
Having, in early life, severely tasked and disciplined his mind by 
study and intense thinking in the midst of company, he suffered lit- 
tle annoyance from calls, even when pressed with labor. After 
explaining the importance of his engagements, to those who called, 
and apologizing for his seeming want of attention, he would request 
them to converse just as they would if he were disengaged. He 
would then resume his writing or reading, and at the same time 
carry on his share of the conversation. From his eminently social 
disposition, he enjoyed society with the keenest relish, but he nev- 
er suffered himself to indulge in visits to his friends, only so far as 
he thought he could promote their spiritual interests. When urg- 
ed to spend more time with them, he would say to them, if they 
were Christians, " Soon we shall have an eternity to visit in." As 
he seldom laid aside his books when riding, on account of a storm, 
they would often get injured ; and if any one suggested that it was 
not good economy to use books thus, he would reply by giving his 
valuation in money of one, two, or more hours' study, and then the 
cost of the book, and according to his estimate, the pecuniary ad- 
vantage was much in his favor. His reading was always of the 
solid kind. He had no moments to waste on the ephemeral pro- 
ductions of the press. He remarked not long before his death, 
that he had never read a novel. Life w r ith him was too serious to 
waste on such trifles. His mind, trained to such activity: in his 
waking moments, was often in his hours of sleep occupied with the 



DAVID MARKS. 513 

same momentous subjects, and he would pray and preach for a long 
time, frequently awaking all in the house. 

He was emphatically a happy man, even in his most adverse cir- 
cumstances. Few ever enjoyed life better than he. He lived in 
the .sunshine — in an atmosphere of cheerfulness and joy, and though 
at times he was weighed down with an oppressive sense of his re- 
sponsibilities, yet these seasons were but as " passing clouds, shad- 
ing a path usually bright." This was doubtless owing in part to a 
very happy natural temperament, but it should be mainly attributed 
to his strong confidence in God. His firm, heartfelt assurance of 
a state of eternal blessedness for the righteous, scattered joy and 
gladness in his pathway, while it enabled him to look upon the 
trials of this brief life as of little moment. The religion of the 
Bible was to him, as he expressed it, a " tangible reality," absorb- 
ing all other claims and filling the whole sphere of his vision. He 
thought, planned, prayed, studied, and labored, as if he had no inter- 
est separate from the interest of the Redeemer's kingdom, and 
whenever matters relating to its success were presented, " his own 
things" were the last and least which occupied his thoughts. 

Another very prominent feature of his character was his cruci- 
fixion to the world. Indeed, he seemed to live so much above it, 
as to lose all desire for worldly fame or honor. Especially was 
this true of him during the last years of his life. Envy was a pas- 
sion that had no resting place in his bosom. If good could be ac- 
complished, he cared little who had the honor. If others could be 
more useful than himself, he rejoiced with joy unspeakable. Though 
frank and open almost to a fault, yet knowing a little " what was in 
man" — that eminence exposed its possessor to the envy and jeal- 
ousy of little minds — he frequently sought privacy in the execution 
of his plans for doing good, persuading others to take the lead, and 
charging them, to use his own language, not to let it be suspected 
that the " hand of Joab" was there. In this manner he effected 
much for God and his generation, which will remain unknown till 
the judgment. He feared and dreaded the praise of men, not that 
he did not naturally love it, but he trembled, lest it might tempt 
him to seek worldly honor. Against this, he watched, and strug- 
gled, and prayed. The following incident is a specimen of the 
care with which he guarded his heart. During the fourth session 
of the General Conference in Rhode Island, 1830, he preached a 
sermon much to the acceptance of the audience, and which was 
blessed to the conversion of several souls. Soon after the close of 
the meeting, sorrow was depicted on his countenance, and he has- 
tened to be alone. A friend inquired the cause of his sadness. 

He replied, mournfully, " Brother [a minister of considerable 

influence] has been talking to me just like satan." " What has he 



514 MEMOIRS OF 

said ?" the friend inquired. " As I was coming out of the church, 
he said to me, ' Brother Marks, you have preached well to-day,' 
and satan had just told me the same." He never seemed elated 
by success. Indeed, his greatest seasons of humiliation generally 
followed his most successful efforts. 

In his preaching, he was remarkably affectionate and pathetic. 
After portraying the dreadful condition of the impenitent, his 
own feelings would often become almost uncontrollable, tears would 
trickle down his face, and frequently he would kneel in the midst 
of his sermon, and pour out in prayer the gushing desires of his 
heart for the salvation of his hearers. The effect produced was 
often like an electric shock. At other times, while urging his ap- 
peals to the consciences of sinners, he would descend from the desk, 
as though he thought if he were nearer the people, the truths he 
was urging would find more access to their hearts. 

Notwithstanding tenderness was a prominent characteristic of 
his preaching and of his intercourse with society, yet he was bold 
and fearless in his reproofs of sin, and when he thought the occa- 
sion demanded, he was very severe. About two years previous to 
his death, he said to his companion, on returning from Pittsfield, (a 
town adjacent to Oberlin,) " To-day, for the first time in my life, I 
told a man he lied." She replied, " You were not so abrupt as to 
use that language ?" " Yes, I said in so many words, ' You lie.' I 
said it, because he did lie, and faithfulness to his soul made it my 

duty to tell him so. I was at the house of brother J s. A 

man was present who went on for some time with a tirade of false- 
hoods about Oberlin. At length, he said that amalgamation with 
the colored people prevailed very extensively. I then asked him 
if he knew his statement to be true. He said, 'Yes, I have often 
been in Oberlin, and there is hardly a child to be seen in the street 
that is not as red as a copper cent.' I fixed my eye upon him for 
a moment, and then, in a perfectly calm and kind manner, said to 
him, Sir, you lie, and you know you do. I live in Oberlin, and 
there has never been a case of marriage there between the white 
and colored people. The man seemed thunder-struck. I suppos- 
ed that he was an infidel, or some one who had no regard for his 
reputation as a man of truth, but, to my surprise, I afterwards 
learned that he was a professor of religion." 

In the domestic virtues, Mr. Marks eminently excelled. He was 
emphatically, "The light and the joy of his house." As a son, he was 
a pattern of filial piety. No mother was ever more tenderly be- 
loved by a child than was the mother of Mr. Marks. Though she 
had long lain in the grave, yet his love for her was " fresh and fra- 
grant to the last." She was indeed worthy of his affection, and 
though she lived in obscurity, she was one of that noble band of 



DAVID MARKS. 5l5 

mothers, whose piety and maternal government have made them 
benefactors of the world. Few days of his life ever passed in 
which he did not allude to her ; and when he was crossing death's 
dark river, his eye shone with unwonted lustre, as he spoke of soon 
seeing his dear mother. It has been said that " Trifles, lighter 
than straws, are levers in the building up of character." Mr. Marks 
ascribed to the decision and firmness of his mother on one occasion, 
an influence which decided his future course. When he was about 
ten years of age, he was very anxious to visit a certain place, and 
for several days before he ventured to ask permission, exerted 
himself in every possible way to please his mother, hoping thereby 
to secure her assent. But his request was denied. He was great- 
ly disappointed, and could not see the reasonableness of her refusal. 
Though always trained to habits of implicit obedience, yet in this 
instance, he was so intent on the gratification of his wishes, that he 
persuaded himself to think that she was wrong, and he resolved to 
make the desired visit. He knew his mother would punish him, 
yet he thought she was so tender-hearted that she would not be se- 
vere, and he would rather endure some chastening than not enjoy 
his anticipated pleasure. He began to make preparation. His 
mother inquired with surprise, " Where are you going ?" He told 
her. " But," she replied, " I said to you that you could not go." 
a I know you did," he calmly answered, " but I think it is my duty 
to go." " Indeed," said she, " it is then my duty to punish you till 
you change your views." He persisted in his course. Without 
any further reasoning, she used the rod. For a time he bore it 
without complaint, thinking the tenderness of her heart would un- 
nerve her, but the stripes becoming more and more severe, he was 
obliged to cry out for pain. He then thought he would frighten 
her, and falling on the ground, groaned out, " Mother, you will kill 
me." She replied, " Such a rebellious child ought to die. It is 
written in the law of Moses, that a stubborn and rebellious son that 
will not obey the voice of his mother should be stoned to death." 
[Deut. 21:18 — 21.] He now began to fear he should die, when 
the thought of meeting God in the very act of disobeying the com- 
mand to honor his parents, filled him with unutterable horror, and 
he sobbed out, "O mother, can you forgive your wicked son? I 
will submit." Her strength failed, and bursting into tears, she 
said, " O my son ! my son ! never did I expect such a trial as 
this from you. You don't know what suffering you have caused 
me : but I knew that you were ruined if I did not subdue you." 
Her words increased his distress a hundred fold. His broken heart 
was filled with anguish, and a sense of his sinfulness never left him 
till he gave himself to God. In after years, and indeed, until the 



516 MEMOIRS OF DAVID MARKS. 

close of his life, he seldom ever related this circumstance without 
shedding bitter tears. 

He was ever much interested in the simplicity and innocence of 
children, and was always a great favorite with the children of fam- 
ilies where, in his travels, he was accustomed to call. After win- 
ning their confidence, he would labor in the most affectionate man- 
ner to impress their minds with a sense of their duty to God, and 
many of them have in consequence been converted. He used to 
say, he loved little children, because Jesus said, " Of such is the 
kingdom of heaven." 

God has said, " Them that honor me, I will honor." Here lies 
the secret of Mr. Marks' influence and success. He honored God 
by his simple faith, and reliance on his word, and God verified his 
promise, not only through his whole life, but in permitting him, in 
the hour of his dissolution, to bear a glorious testimony to the real- 
ity of the Christian's hope. It may be truly said of him, in the 
beautiful language of Tupper, that, 

" In childhood, he loved holiness and drank from that fountain-head of peace 5 

Wisdom took him for her scholar, guiding his steps in purity 5 

He lived unpolluted by the world, and his young heart hated sin*, 

His friends were the excellent among men, and the bands of their friendship were 

strong. 
His house was the palace of peace, for the Prince of peace was there. 
Thus did he walk in happiness, while 

The light of affection sunned his heart, and the tear of the grateful bedewed his feet. 
He put his hand with constancy to good, and angels knew him as a brother, 
While the busy satellites of evil trembled, as at God's ally. 
He used his goods as a wise steward, making him friends for futurity •, 
He bent his learning to religion, and religion was with him to the last : 
And after many days, when the time of his release was come, 
I longed for a congregated world to behold that dying saint. 
As the aloe is green and well-liking to the last summer of its age, 
And then hangeth out its golden bells to mingle glory with corruption ; 
As a meteor travelleth in splendor, but bursteth in dazzling light, 
Such was his end : his death was the sun at its setting." 



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